The Phenom Team Gears Up For A Competitive Week At The White Marlin Open
The Phenom team makes there way to Ocean City, Maryland to compete in the world renowned White Marlin Open. This is the teams second year after a very exciting first year the team is looking forward to showcasing the Phenom 37's abilities once again.
As summer starts to wind down, Team Phenom is revving up for what promises to be an exhilarating fall boat show season. Our first major event? The renowned White Marlin Open—an ideal kickoff to our busy schedule.
Why the White Marlin Open?
The White Marlin Open, held in Ocean City Maryland, is more than just a tournament; it’s a fishing extravaganza that attracts the best teams from around the globe. This prestigious event marks the beginning of an exciting fall fishing season where the Northeast canyons become a hotbed for white marlin. These majestic fish, often showing up in impressive numbers, turn the waters into a thrilling playground for anglers. With the possibility of catching double-digit numbers of white marlin—and the chance to land large blue marlin and tuna—the excitement is palpable.
Fishing Strategy and Tactics
White marlin are known for being somewhat finicky, so the key to success is a combination of experience, skill, and precise technique. As captains begin scrutinizing sea surface temperature charts and searching for pockets of favorable water conditions, crews need to be ready with a well-honed strategy.
Typically, our approach involves a mix of dredge and surface teasers. Imitation squid teasers and natural mullet or ballyhoo dredges are employed to draw the marlin closer to the boat. Our spread usually features a combination of small naked circle-hooked ballyhoo along with both small and large pitch bait setups. Given the white marlin’s delicate bite, a flawless drop back is essential for a successful hook-up.
When blue marlin and tuna make an appearance, we adjust our spread accordingly. Adding a larger lure on an 80w-130w reel in the short rigger position can entice blue marlin, while a Joe Shute lure paired with a Ron Z elastic bait in a long position is a proven choice for tuna. Each crew has its own set of tactics, but one thing remains constant: a sharp eye is crucial.
Team Phenom at the Helm
This year, Team Phenom will be proudly representing the brand in our flagship model the Phenom 37; a versatile model designed for tournament fishing and extreme performance even in the harshest conditions. We’re not just here to compete; we’re also excited to showcase our latest model at the docks. Last year, our presence made a significant impact. We were the first boat to weigh in during the 50th anniversary White Marlin Open, garnering substantial online coverage and connecting with many fishing enthusiasts.
Our Phenom 37 is equipped with top-of-the-line gear, including Gemlux Outriggers, Dredge Booms, Garmin electronics, and Mercury motors. This state-of-the-art equipment ensures that we are more than capable of holding our own against the fiercest competition.
The Road Ahead
While showcasing our boat is a key focus, our team is equally determined to excel on the water. Every member of Team Phenom is eager to not only demonstrate the capabilities of our Phenom 37 but also to bring home a victory.
The White Marlin Open is a testament to the high standards of competitive fishing, and we’re ready to meet that challenge head-on. With a fierce competitive spirit and a high-performing vessel, Team Phenom is poised for a memorable and successful tournament.
Stay tuned as we gear up for the action, and join us in celebrating the start of an exciting fall fishing season. Here’s to tight lines and trophy-worthy catches!