Australian International Billfish Tournament | Gold Coast Game Fishing Event

The Australian International Billfish Tournament (AIBT) is one of the most respected and eagerly anticipated events on the Australian game fishing calendar. Held annually on the Gold Coast, this iconic tournament brings together passionate anglers, experienced crews, and offshore fishing enthusiasts for several days of intense competition, camaraderie, and unforgettable billfish action 🌊.

Hosted by the Gold Coast Game Fish Club, the AIBT is renowned for its professional organisation, strong sportsmanship, and commitment to sustainable fishing practices.

📅 Event Dates and Location

The Australian International Billfish Tournament will take place from 8–11 January 2026, operating out of the Gold Coast, Queensland.

Scheduled during the height of summer ☀️, the tournament coincides with prime billfish conditions, offering competitors excellent opportunities to encounter marlin and other prized pelagic species.

🌊 Why the Gold Coast Is a Billfish Hotspot

The offshore waters of the Gold Coast are widely regarded as one of Australia’s most consistent billfish fisheries. Blue marlin, black marlin, striped marlin, and sailfish are regularly encountered during the summer season 🐟.

With deep water close to shore, productive current lines, and bait-rich environments, the region delivers challenging and rewarding fishing conditions for both seasoned tournament crews and first-time competitors.

🛥️ Tournament Format and Competition

The AIBT places a strong emphasis on tag and release, promoting responsible sport fishing and the long-term sustainability of billfish stocks.

Key features of the tournament include:

• 🎯 Tag and Release Divisions recognising skillful fish handling and successful releases

• 👥 Team and Individual Categories across multiple competitive classes

• ⏱️ Daily Fishing Sessions supported by clear rules, safety briefings, and official reporting

Points are awarded based on species and verified tags, rewarding preparation, teamwork, and on-water decision-making.

♻️ Conservation at the Core

Conservation is a central pillar of the Australian International Billfish Tournament. By encouraging tag and release fishing, the event supports valuable scientific research and contributes data that helps track billfish movement and population health 📊.

This conservation-first approach ensures the Gold Coast fishery remains strong and sustainable for future generations of anglers.

🎉 More Than Just a Fishing Tournament

The AIBT is as much a social event as it is a competitive one. Anglers, families, sponsors, and supporters come together throughout the tournament to enjoy presentations, social functions, and prize ceremonies 🏆.

The event also delivers meaningful benefits to the local economy, supporting tourism, accommodation, marine services, and hospitality businesses across the Gold Coast.

🎣 Who Should Attend

The Australian International Billfish Tournament attracts:

• 🐟 Experienced game fishing crews chasing competitive success

• 🚤 Recreational anglers stepping into the tournament scene

• 🧭 Charter operators showcasing vessels and expertise

• 👀 Spectators and supporters drawn to the excitement of a major fishing event

Whether competing or watching from shore, the atmosphere is electric.

⭐ A Summer Highlight on the Australian Fishing Calendar

Running from 8–11 January 2026, the Australian International Billfish Tournament on the Gold Coast remains a flagship event in Australian sport fishing. Combining elite billfish action, strong conservation values, and a world-class coastal setting, it continues to be a must-attend tournament each summer 🌅.