ROMPIN: The 5th Royal Pahang Billfish International Challenge this weekend will see many international anglers pitting their skills for the biggest catch.

The annual competition is expected to draw participants from around the world, putting Pahang on the international anglers map and elevating its reputation in global marine sports.

The term billfish describes predatory fish characterised by their large size and long sword-like bills, such as in the sailfish and marlin.

Rompin is one of the world’s top three destinations for sailfish anglers.

The competition is recognised as one in the qualifying series of the Offshore World Championship sanctioned by the International Games Fishing Association.

The winner will qualify for the final round of the International Game Fishing Association championship at Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Pahang Tourism Action Council general manager Idros Yahya said one of the objectives of the event was to attract tourists to Pahang, especially those seeking adventure and eco-friendly sports.

“International competitions like these can promote recreational-angling tourism in Malaysia and make Rompin a destination for anglers from around the world.

“This year, we expect 250 sailfish angling enthusiasts in 50 teams from places such as Singapore, the Philippines, Japan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Britain, Zimbabwe, South Africa and the United States,” he said.

The competition only covers catches of sailfish and marlin based on the catch and release concept.

Idros said that 285 sailfishes were caught and tagged last year.

He said such competitions could create economic activities for locals in sectors such as food, services and hospitality.

For the challenge, the Department of Fisheries has placed 18 artificial reefs to attract billfishes.

Source The Star Online