Record Payout, Fabulous Prizes Await 2016 Contestants for Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort

"We have already surpassed all previous records for the number of sponsors and donations," says tournament director Adam Alfonso. "We'll have a ton of great gifts for all the anglers and especially the winners. Boat owners will receive an exclusive package from our presenting sponsor, Wind Creek Casino & Hotel-Atmore, along with a custom fishing shirt from Hook &Tackle, while the captains will take home a special Wind Creek gift bag. Category winners will be awarded goodies from Costa, Orion Coolers, Jackson Fishing Kayaks, Glas Designs custom jewelry, Larry Rackley paintings and custom sculptures from beneath the blue.

"Best of all, based on the pace of pre-tournament registrations, we're on track to top our record number of boats and record $1.68 million in overall prize money," Alfonso added. "I've ordered plenty of beautiful Florida weather and some really big fish, so it's shaping up to be another fantastic tournament week here at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort."

Now celebrating its 14th year, the ECBC draws teams from across the Gulf Coast and Southeastern United States. Eligible species include blue marlin, tuna, wahoo and dolphin, plus a billfish release division. In 2015, Johnny Dorland's Cotton Patch crew from Orange Beach, Alabama, set the new tournament benchmark by weighing in an 899.6-pound blue marlin.

"We're adding new boats that have never fished with us before, so that bodes well for spirited competition and more available prize money," Alfonso added. "We've also re-arranged the weigh station to increase the viewing area to accommodate more spectators for the Friday and Saturday weigh-ins. The public is welcome to come watch all the festivities as the boats unload their catch."

The 2016 Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic, presented by Wind Creek Casino & Hotel—Atmore, runs June 22-26 at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. For registration forms, dockage or more information, visit www.fishecbc.com. Book now to get the best location and rates for the event weekend. Call 800.320.8115 to make your reservation or book online at Sandestin.com/ECBC. Use GROUP Code FISH16.

About Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a major destination for all seasons and all ages, and was named the #1 Resort on Florida's Emerald Coast. The resort invites guests to a world of 2,400 acres and 30 charming neighborhoods featuring more than 1,250 vacation rentals, condominiums, villas, town homes and the best in hotel accommodations. As a member of Visit South Walton and Visit Florida, the resort features more than seven miles of beaches and pristine bay front, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, a 113-slip marina, a fitness center and spa, meeting space and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, a charming pedestrian village with events, shopping, dining and nightlife. People are invited to download Sandestin's APP for iPhone and Android devices, or become a Facebook Fan or Twitter follower for the latest events and news.

SOURCE Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort