MEDIA RELEASE

In the summertime … the fish are biting.

An unforgettable week of famous deep-sea fishing in Kona awaits anglers from around the world as teams gather Aug. 13-17 for the 53rd running of the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament.

This summer, HIBT anglers, aboard some of sportfishing’s finest fleet of vessels, will fish for prized Pacific blue marlin and a chance of capturing the HIBT’s prestigious Governor’s trophy.

Kona’s billfishing water is considered unique for two reasons, calm seas and big marlin. And summertime in Kona is where the billfishing action is.

Just ask last year’s winning team.

Port Vila Game Fishing Club of Vanuatu prevailed and captured the 2011 HIBT Governor’s Trophy, earning them first place. Port Vila’s lead going into Day 5 was strong enough to hold off several other teams high on the scoreboard, finishing the 2011 HIBT with an even 2,000 points.

The 2012 HIBT scoreboard promises to bring much anticipated excitement.

Expect even more fishing action as teams return to fish HIBT from Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Vanuatu and teams from across the USA.

However, don’t underestimate angler skill as the 2012 HIBT welcomes new teams to the tournament including Portugal and Russia.

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament is underwritten by the generosity of the County of Hawaii and sponsored in part by KWXX Radio and numerous corporate and community donors.

Future HIBT fishing dates include:

* 2013 HIBT – Aug. 4-10, including five days of fishing Aug. 5-9
* 2014 HIBT July 27-Aug. 2, including five days of fishing July 28-Aug. 1

For more information on the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, including team listings, IGFA world-record rules and a daily video recap of tournament standings, visit www.hibtfishing.com