Kona's fishing reputation was placed on a worldwide stage 49 years ago when Peter S. Fithian founded the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. Since then, HIBT has earned its iconic status in big-game fishing tournaments. This tournament is built upon honor, prestige and strict adherence to International Game Fish Association rules for world records, with catches verified by an IGFA judging panel

For five days every year, the world's top teams are 'gone fishing.' Teams from as far away as Australia, Bahamas, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Africa and throughout the US are in search of a prized Pacific blue marlin and their chance of capturing the HIBT's prestigious Governor's trophy.

Why is the Kona Coast so famous in elite fishing circles? These fishing grounds boast warm, deep waters, sunny skies, the Aloha Spirit and the ability to catch a marlin just five minutes after the tournament starts!

 Hilton Grand Vacations Fishing Club of Japan won the 2007 Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament and was presented the prestigious Governor's trophy. In addition to winning the tournament, Hilton Grand Vacations Fishing Club of Japan's angler Haruo Kaneko boated the tournament's largest fish, a 689-pound Pacific blue marlin and the tournaments largest yellow fin tuna.

Anglers and teams are invited to apply early for the 2008 HIBT as a full tournament is anticipated.

For more tournament information or to request team registration, please email hibt@hawaii.rr.com or call the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament headquarters at (808) 836-3422.