Organisers optimistic about 62nd Port Antonio International Marlin tournament
Published:Wednesday | October 15, 2025 | 12:08 AMGregory Bryce/Staff Reporter
THE 62ND staging of the Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament is set to be held at the Ole’ Marina in Port Antonio from October 22 to 25.
In a press release by the Sir Henry Morgan Anglers Association (SHMAA), the long-standing deep-sea fishing tournament was called a “proud legacy of sport fishing, camaraderie and community engagement”.
Maxim Rochester, chairman of the SHMAA, said the dates were selected to maximise the chances of a good haul for each competitor.
Rochester shared that last year’s competition saw an impressive 26 marlin caught and released, averaging nearly two marlin per boat.
“This year’s tournament date was carefully selected based on the moon phase, which should allow for an even higher yield for our anglers,” he said.
A special feature of the competition is the Canoe Tournament, which allows for local canoe fisherfolk to take part in their own competition.
Rochester shared that its introduction has been a major success. The SHMAA was forced to limit the number of entrants to 60, with three persons per boat, due to an inceased number of interested parties.
He also said that the tournament has brought in a number of women who have expressed their desire to compete.
“This tournament is unique in that it allows local fisherfolk from Portland and surrounding parishes to actively participate, bringing the community into the heart of the sport,” he said.
“It has become so popular that we’ve had to limit entries to 60 canoes, with a maximum of three fisherfolk per boat. Yes, I say fisherfolk because women have become an integral part of the tournament.”
Marian Ross-Ammar, vice-president of trading and investment at Sterling Asset Management Limited, said they are pleased to renew their over decade-long relationship with the tournament for another year.
Ross-Ammar said their role as title sponsors is a show of their dedication to the community and is now a tradition for both the company and the community it supports.
“This tournament holds a very special place in our hearts. We are incredibly proud to have been serving as a sponsor for over a decade,” she said.
“It has now formed part of our tradition as a company, and it’s a way for us to show not only our love for sport but also our commitment to community and continuity.
“Over the years, the Sir Henry Morgan Anglers Association has built something remarkable: a tournament that brings together sportsmanship, teamwork, and environmental respect in equal measure.”
The four days of competition are expected to bring a wave of excitement to the anglers’ community, with the weather forecast allowing for a good competition.
Rochester sought to thank the sponsors, the competitors, and the Port Antonio community as he looks forward to another successful staging.
“As we prepare for this year’s tournament, we do so with great optimism. The weather forecast looks promising, the excitement is building, and the camaraderie remains as strong as ever.
“The professional anglers, the local canoe fishers, the sponsors, and the community. That’s what makes this tournament truly special, and it’s why we’re so proud to call it our own.”