What do fog horns, glow bracelets, and fishing have in common? They are all things that you will see at the Ocean City Inlet on day 1 of the electrifying White Marlin Open! Why is day 1 so exciting you ask?
It’s A 3 AM Party at the Inlet
Not only has everyone been waiting 365 days since last year’s 50th anniversary of the WMO, people have been amped up to celebrate at the Ocean City buoy.
Tournament rules state that any boat fishing in The White Marlin Open can not cross the buoy before 4AM. So… boats line up beginning at the edge of the jetty that separates OC and Assateague Island. Spectators line up on land along the ocean wall to cheer on their families, friends, and really anyone participating. You don’t need to know anyone fishing in the tournament to cheer! Boats honk their horns, flash their lights, and cheer as they wait at “the starting gate.” Other boats wear glow necklaces of various colors while their family members dress in the same color so they can see each other.
Here’s A Beginners Guide to Watching That First Morning
- Wake up between 3:00 and 3:30 AM! (Yes- that’s AM)
- Stay in your comfy sweats (preferably Pure Lure)
- Bring your glow sticks, light up glasses, fish hats, anything that screams “I’m here to have a good time!”
- Carefully drive, bike, or walk south to the Ocean City Inlet. You can’t miss it! Just look for the group of people.
- It’s important to arrive before 4AM.
- Get a pep in your step and bring your enthusiasm and cheer!
- This is a great opportunity to get photos and videos of the most popular fishing tournament in the white marlin capital of the world!
What Comes Next?
At 4AM, boats will rev their engines, a feeling of rumbling and vibrations penetrate through your chest. Boats begin their slow crawl out of the inlet and thrust their throttles forward! And this begins the week long journey of The White Marlin Open.
Well…It’s 4AM and you’re wide awake. What do you do now? Stay tuned for more information!
