SMALL BOAT, BIG ROCK

The 62nd Annual Big Rock Tournament wrapped up with a few surprises and a stunning finish for one fortunate team. With 205 boats and a cash purse of $3,352,475, it was certainly a memorable one for all involved.

Capt. John, his Suzuki-powered Contender 35T based in nearby Snead’s Ferry, North Carolina, led his team of Riley Adkins, Norman Bowen and Kyle Kirkpatrick to a 495.2-pound blue marlin, winning not just the outboard division, but incredibly topping the fleet with the largest marlin of the tournament as well. And while his crew is accustomed to heavy-tackle bluefin tuna fishing, this was their first foray into blue marlin as well as their first tournament.