48th Annual U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament returns to Brunswick County
SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — The 48th Annual U.S. Open King Mackerel Tournament is set for Oct. 1-3 at Dutchman Creek Park in Brunswick County.
The tournament is part of the Southern Kingfish Association Tournament Trail and is one of the largest king mackerel tournaments on the East Coast.
The 2024 tournament drew 565 boats and paid out more than $425,000 in cash prizes. The 2025 event attracted 225 boats after being rescheduled because of weather.
The tournament guarantees cash prizes, including $25,000 for the largest king mackerel, with 55 places paid in the primary category.
The event will also feature food vendors, live music, a sponsor showcase and live weigh-ins.
Registration and packet pickup will take place Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Dutchman Creek Park. The captain’s meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Fishing will take place Oct. 2 and 3, with live-streamed weigh-ins beginning at 2 p.m.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for 8 p.m. Oct. 3 at Rusty Hooks Dockside Grill, with country music band Hoods Creek performing from 5 to 8 p.m.
