There isn't an avid angler or fishing enthusiast that doesn't know about the Orange Beach Billfish Classic tournament, but just in-case we've overlooked anyone; let us enlighten you!
Every year, anglers and enthusiasts alike flock to the beautiful shores of Orange Beach, Alabama to participate in one of the most prestigious and thrilling events in the sport fishing world. The Orange Beach Billfish Classic Tournament. The tournament, founded in 1996 was formed to financially support organizations that speak effectively for recreational fisherman. This widely known and well renowned tournament showcases the excitement, skill, and camaraderie that define the world of billfish angling.
Participants in this tournament have the opportunity to target and compete for a variety of billfish species, including Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, and Spearfish. These majestic creatures are known for their strength, agility, and acrobatic displays, making them a true test of an angler's skill, patience, and strategy.
This tournament isn't just about competition, it encompasses the angling community and coastal lifestyle. The vibrant atmosphere of shared passion from spectators and participants alike, engaging in friendly conversations, sharing stories, building connections, and becoming part of a close-knit community of fishing enthusiasts.
For Ron and Lisa Davis owners of The Southern Charm, this event is more than making an impact, it's making memories that last a lifetime. The exhilarating offshore fishing competition pushes even these seasoned professionals to test their skills against some of the most sought-after game fish in The Gulf of Mexico.
Spanning multiple days, the Captain, Crew, and Anglers are given ample time to navigate the deep blue waters of The Gulf in search of their trophy catch. Anglers are able to engage in various fishing techniques ranging from trolling, live baiting, and lure presentations to entice and engage these formidable opponents. Showcasing the thrill of the chase whilst promoting the importance of ethical fishing practices and responsible catch-and-release methods.
For The Southern Charm, the allure of the open ocean, thrill of the catch, and warmth of Southern hospitality this region offers sport fishing, is like no other. This beauty of a boat boasts state-of-the-art equipment and top-notch amenities, ensuring that every aspect of their fishing experience is comfortable and efficient. The crew's expertise in navigating these waters and their passion for sport fishing create an environment that fosters growth, commitment to excellence, excitement, and camaraderie among fellow anglers.
"Everyone has a job to do," says Davis. "When you're out there you have to work together and each person is assigned a specific task so that we work efficiently and well together. We feel incredibly blessed because you often find a captain that is either really good at navigating and not so much fishing, or really good at fishing and not so much navigating. We have been blessed with the best in each facet. Our crewmen Captain Landon Bell, First Mate Connor McLeod, and Second Mate Chase Richardson are the best. Each one of them keep things running smoothly and efficiently. They know these waters and work together as a team, that's what makes us excel."
The rules for tournaments vary from fishing hours, eligibility of fish, IGFA rules, Catch and Release, Weigh-In, Lady and Junior Angler, etc.
The Southern Charm placed 3rd in the 2023 Orange Beach Billfiish Classic winning $84,000.
Ron & Lisa Davis - Owners of The Southern Charm
Children: Tara Hogoboom, Grant Davis, Mackenzie Moll
Captain: Landon Bell
First Mate: Connor McLeod
Second Mate: Chase Richardson
This has been such a bonding experience for our family and we are so blessed.
