About Hervey Bay Game Fishing Club
The Hervey Bay Game Fishing Tournament (often called the Hervey Bay Game Fishing Classic) is a major annual offshore game fishing competition held in Hervey Bay, Queensland, run by the Hervey Bay Game Fishing Club (HBGFC).
We are a local fishing club which holds tournaments and is affiliated with the Queensland Game Fishing Association.
What it is
It’s a classic “game fishing” tournament where anglers target large pelagic species like marlin, tuna, wahoo, and other big game fish in the waters off Hervey Bay and around K’gari (Fraser Island). The event is one of Queensland’s best known and longest running game fishing competitions, attracting local, interstate, and even international competitors each year.
When and where
The tournament is typically held in late October or early November each year, with the 2025 event scheduled for 31 October – 2 November 2025. It’s based out of the Hervey Bay Game Fishing Club at Rooney Point, with boats launching from Hervey Bay Marina and fishing in the surrounding waters, including the famous “Bay” and offshore reefs near K’gari.
How it works
- Boat entries: Teams enter as whole boats (not individual anglers), with a captain and crew competing over several days of fishing.
- Species categories: Prizes are awarded for the heaviest fish in various species categories (e.g. black marlin, striped marlin, tuna, wahoo, etc.), and often for “biggest fish” and “biggest lady” categories.
- Catch & release: Many categories encourage catch and release, especially for marlin, to promote sustainable fishing practices.
- Social events: The tournament includes weigh ins, presentations, and social functions at the club, making it a big community and fishing festival.
Why it's popular
Hervey Bay is renowned for its excellent game fishing, especially for black marlin, and the tournament has helped build the region’s reputation as a top sport fishing destination. It’s a well organized, family friendly event that draws serious game fishers and supports local tourism and the fishing industry.
If you’re interested in entering or just watching, the best place for current details (dates, rules, entry forms) is right here on the Hervey Bay Game Fishing Club’s official website. Or follow us on our socials.
HBGFC Monthly Meetings
The Hervey Bay Game Fishing Club holds their monthly meetings on the 1st Tuesday of each month at Hervey Bay Boat Club.
Time: 7:00pm