The City of Niceville in Northwest Florida hopes to put itself on the international sportfishing map this summer when it hosts its first major tournament, the North Light Swordfish and Tuna Challenge.

Scheduled for June 17-20, this blue-water event will target swordfish, tuna, dolphin, wahoo and blue marlin divisions. The Emerald Coast, known for its white beaches and jewel-like water, has long been a destination for vacationers from all over the U.S. But in the last decade, this area has also earned a well-deserved reputation as a big game fishing hot spot.

The event will begin with a captain’s meeting and poolside kickoff party at North Light Marina. Teams can leave from anywhere along the Gulf Coast, but at least one team member must be check in at the captain’s meeting. All fish weighed in will go to a local charity food bank. For additional information, click here.