Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) –   The 2025 Orange Beach Billfish Classic reeled in another successful weekend of big fish, fierce competition, and unforgettable memories at The Wharf. Anglers from across the Gulf Coast gathered to compete in one of the premier sport fishing tournaments in the region. The highlight of the weekend came in the Blue Marlin category, where Scott Cooper, with Team CE, landed a massive 640.2-pound marlin to take first place. Never Settle’s Jim Murdica, followed with an impressive 468.4-pound catch, earning second place.

In the Catch and Release division, Lifeline took top honors, followed by Fall Line in second and Team Supreme in third. These teams demonstrated expert skill and sportsmanship, preserving the future of offshore fishing.

Tuna action was fierce as well. Crawgator, with Bill Butler at the helm, claimed first place thanks to a 204.2-pound tuna. Miss Remy, captained by Rene Cross, secured second with a 145.8-pound catch. Diane Kay, with Connor McCann aboard, came in third at 141 pounds.

In the Wahoo category, Relentless Pursuit and angler Mike Akiu took the top prize with a 24.2-pound fish. The Dolphin division saw Fleur de Lis’s Caston Phillips land a 24-pounder to earn first place.

This year’s Top Lady Angler was Sherry Polk aboard Share-E, while Junior Angler honors went to Jonah Smith of Fall Line.

The Orange Beach Billfish Classic is not only a thrilling event for participants, but it also supports marine conservation efforts and the local economy. With beautiful weather and a strong turnout, the 2025 tournament continues to raise the bar for Gulf Coast sportfishing.

Official 2025 Orange Beach Billfish Classic Results

Blue Marlin 

1st Place - 640.2lbs. - CE - Scott Cooper

2nd Place - 468.4lbs.- Never Settle - Jim Murdica     

Catch and Release 

1st Place - Lifeline

2nd Place - Fall Line

3rd Place - Team Supreme

Tuna

1st Place - 204.2lbs. - Crawgator - Bill Butler

2nd Place - 145.8lbs. - Miss Remy - Rene Cross

3rd Place - 141lbs. - Diane Kay - Connor McCann

Wahoo

1st Place - 24.2lbs. - Relentless Pursuit - Mike Akiu 

Dolphin (Mahi-mahi)

1st Place -24lbs. - Caston Phillips - Fleur de Lis

Top Lady Angler 

Sherry Polk - Share-E

Junior Angler

Jonah Smith - Fall Line

Who is Scott Cooper of the yacht CE, the overall winner of the 2025 Orange Beach Billfish Classic? 

Scott Cooper is a seasoned angler and a foundational figure in the Gulf Coast sportfishing community. As the owner and angler of the 80-foot Viking yacht CE, Cooper has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the sport through both his competitive achievements and his longstanding support of regional tournaments.

Cooper's involvement with the Orange Beach Billfish Classic (OBBC) dates back to its inception in 1996. He played a pivotal role in promoting the tournament and has been one of the few participants to compete every year since its founding. His commitment to the OBBC underscores his deep-rooted passion for billfishing and marine conservation.

In 2019, Cooper upgraded from a 65-foot Hatteras to the CE, a 2016 Viking 80 Convertible named in honor of his sister, Claire Ellen. The yacht, based out of Point Clear, Alabama, is renowned for its performance and luxury, making it a formidable presence in tournaments .

Cooper's family is integral to his fishing endeavors. His sons, Ryan and Scotty, often join him on board, creating cherished multi-generational fishing experiences. In a memorable Father's Day weekend tournament, Cooper landed a 512.4-pound blue marlin, marking his 500th career billfish—a testament to his skill and dedication.

Beyond his personal achievements, Cooper emphasizes the importance of family and the lasting memories created through shared fishing adventures. His philosophy, "We fish for the memories," reflects his belief in the value of experiences over accolades.

In the 2025 Orange Beach Billfish Classic, Cooper and the CE team secured first place in the Blue Marlin category with a 640.2-pound catch, further solidifying their reputation in the sportfishing community.

Scott Cooper's enduring presence and contributions have significantly shaped the Gulf Coast sportfishing landscape, inspiring both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike.