Overview:
Big game action dominated the waters off Palau this weekend as anglers hooked into billfish, tuna and GT during the annual Etpison Cup derby. From a 308.5-pound grand prize catch to tight finishes across divisions, this year’s tournament delivered nonstop offshore excitement.
Tight lines and big fights highlight PSFA tournament as crews battle across tuna, GT and pelagic divisions
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau (May 4, 2026) — Lines were tight and reels were screaming as anglers battled offshore currents during the Palau Sports Fishing Association’s annual derby for the Etpison Cup, landing a slate of heavyweight catches across multiple divisions over the May 2–3 tournament.
Team Rookie, skippered by Skeras Etpison, hooked top honors in the headline billfish division, boating an impressive 308.5 pounds to secure the grand prize. The winning catch came after a sustained fight on Etpison’s vessel, with crew members Stomu Olebuu, RJ and Marley working the rod and leader to bring the fish boatside.
Team Omenged, captained by Clint Madracheluib, finished runner-up in the billfish category with a solid 235 pounds, rounding out a competitive offshore field.
In the tuna division, Reel Team, led by captain Rinsang Rechirei, edged out a narrow win with a 74-pound haul, holding off Team Aquaholics, captained by Torual Gibbons, which weighed in at 72.5 pounds in a tight race to the scales.
The mixed pelagic category—featuring wahoo, barracuda and Spanish mackerel—saw Island Time Crew, under captain Truman Skang, land a combined 30.5 pounds to take the division title.
Nearshore action delivered its own excitement in the giant trevally (GT) category, where Team Kedam, captained by Mayce Ngirmeriil, measured the longest catch at 38.7 inches. Team Kai, skippered by Ivan Blesam, followed closely with a 38.2-inch GT in a near tie that kept weighmasters busy.
Youth anglers also made their mark, showcasing strong hook-setting skills and patience on the water. Beteaur Takawo topped the Junior Anglers division with a 7.45-pound catch, followed by Mathis Martin at 6.08 pounds and Khol Mesebeluu at 5.43 pounds.
Tournament organizers said the annual derby continues to draw seasoned crews and rising anglers alike, highlighting Palau’s reputation as a premier sportfishing destination and celebrating the camaraderie of the local fishing community. (Full disclosure: This article was edited in part with the use of artificial intelligence.)