The docks at Big Rock Landing were buzzing last night as anglers, captains, and conservation enthusiasts gathered for registration at the 37th Annual NC Ducks Unlimited Band the Billfish Tournament.

Every June, a buzz takes over the Crystal Coast. You can feel it walking down the waterfront in Morehead City—restaurants packed, docks alive with crews rigging lines and polishing outriggers, and tournament flags snapping in the breeze. The source of this electric energy? The legendary Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament.