MANZANILLO Sailfish World Capital

The best game fish in the world is practiced in Manzanillo
The Celebration

Manzanillo was the third port created by the Spaniards in the Pacific. It is called the "Sailfish World Capital" since 1957. The reason for the naming of the city in that specific year is that 336 of them were caught in its waters. Since then and due to the vast amount of capture in the port it is seat for the Dorsey International Tournament since 1954.

This port has the greatest amounts in reserve of this species all over the world. In the last 45 years it has been visited by over eight thousand fishermen from all parts of the world. Many of them enjoy the fun that takes place on the docks and while all ships are returning home after a hard days work.

Every year National and International Tournaments are celebrated during the months of February and November respectively. The attendance varies because you can find amateurs and some of the best contestants in the world.

Species that qualify for the tournament and that are graded are: Marlin, Tuna this can be found measuring from 2.5 to 4 meters in length.


The Club Deportivo de Pesca de Manzanillo, A.C. organizes and carries out the following tournamen:

International Tournament
During November's first week
Admission: $5,000 per pole
Prizes approximately add up to $800,000
(Amounts given in Mexican Pesos)


National Tournament
First week in February
Admission: $2,000 per pole
Prizes approximately add up to $500,000
(Amounts given in Mexican Pesos)

Torneo Fiestas de Mayo Manzanillo
First week in May
Admission:$2,000 per pole
Prizes approximately add up to $500,000
(Amounts given in Mexican Pesos)

Torneo Infantil "Guillermo Adachi Naitoh"
Last week of May
For boys and girls between the ages of 5 to 11
Admission: Free Prizes are donated by the sponsors

You can contact the Club Deportivo de Pesca de Manzanillo, A.C. at this information number (314) 336-7265.

If you are an amateur you can also enjoy this events without having to join them. You will find different kind of rental boats for all budgets and needs in the harbor that will allow you to spend a wonderful fishing day.

Specific conditions for this sport are: a ship that reaches a previously specified speed, and you have to be at least 10 miles off the coast in order to qualify. All ships have the equipment needed such as VHF radios, life vests and baths. Some even have cabins, food and cold drinks. Again all of this provided upon request and rental and according to budgets and needs.

Just like all around the world, or at least in most places where there is game fish. All game captured are freed again.