Offering some of the best game fishing in Mexico, the island of Cozumel hosts several annual sport fish tournaments throughout the spring, the most popular being its annual Mexican Boat Rodeo. This year more than
167 boats and 500 fishermen participated in the 34th annual Mexican Boat Rodeo, held May 13 to15, making it the largest turnout in the tournaments history.

Teams set out early Sunday morning, May 15, in search of blue and white Marlin. After sailing for more than seven hours, boats came in bringing with them some of the largest Marlin, Dorado, and Wahoo around. Locals enjoyed the festivities that surrounded the tournament and cheered as each fish was weighed in.

The prized catch of the day was a Marlin that weighed in at an astounding 155.87 pounds. Caught by Armando Lopez Rosado, the Marlin earned him first place in the tournament along with the top prize, a brand-new Ford pickup truck.

Rosado, who comes from Punta Allen, Mexico, was also honored as the tournament’s “Best Captain” for which he received a new Yamaha motorcycle.

A private awards dinner was held for the winners at Panchos Backyard Restaurant, where the Mayor of Cozumel, Gustavo Ortega, was in attendance to present the prizes.

At the ceremony eight prizes, with a combined total value of $100,000 U.S., were awarded. Prizes were also given to the “Best Captain” and “Best Sailor” in the tournament.
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