What began in 2005 as the “I Fish for Food Tuna Tournament” — a grassroots effort led by founder Bud Hosner — has grown into one of the West Coast’s most prestigious charitable fishing competitions and an exclusive invitational for the Offshore World Championship. Each summer, top anglers from across the Pacific Northwest compete for honors while donating their catch to feed families along the Oregon Coast.
“From our very first tournament, the goal has always been bigger than fishing,” said John Stanfield, President of the OTC Board. “This event is about feeding families, supporting our neighbors, and showing the power of a community that comes together on and off the water. It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come in 20 years — growing from a small group of anglers into a major event with more than 40 teams competing, a vibrant community presence, and a mission that continues to inspire. We’re proud to create an experience that celebrates both the sport and the spirit of giving.”
Last year’s tournament saw strong participation and generous donations of both fresh albacore tuna and financial support, helping provide thousands of healthy, protein-rich meals to coastal communities in need. Kati Duffy, Community Philanthropy Developer at Oregon Food Bank, emphasized the vital impact of the tournament: “Fresh, high-quality protein is one of our most needed items, and the opportunity to share locally-caught tuna with our community is unmatched. The tuna provided through Oregon Tuna Classic goes directly to families along the Oregon Coast, delivering food that is fresh, nourishing, and local. We are strongest when we connect with and support each other, and Oregon Tuna Classic truly embodies the power of our Oregon community.”
This year’s event will feature 49 registered teams. On Saturday, August 16, a shotgun start will send boats racing offshore in the morning to compete for the five heaviest albacore of the day. On both Friday, August 15, and Saturday, August 16, the public is invited to Captain’s Corner in the afternoons to watch the official fish weigh-ins, meet the crews, and share in the excitement as the tuna come in. The competition wraps up Saturday evening with an awards ceremony and fundraiser to support the OTC’s partner organizations.
This year’s title sponsor, Schooner Creek Boat Works, is proud to help mark this milestone. “As a company rooted in the marine community, supporting the Oregon Tuna Classic was a natural fit for us,” said Pascal Le Guilly, General Manager of Schooner Creek Boat Works. “This tournament is more than a competition — it’s about camaraderie, tradition, and giving back to the coastal communities we all cherish.”
Since its inception, the OTC has donated the equivalent of over 1 million pounds of food and more than $1 million in cash to the Oregon Food Bank and Ducks Unlimited. These contributions not only fight hunger but also help conserve critical wetlands and wildlife habitat, while boosting Oregon’s coastal economies through tourism, sponsorship, and community partnerships.
About the Oregon Tuna Classic
The Oregon Tuna Classic is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to uniting anglers and communities to fight hunger and support conservation. Entirely volunteer-run, the OTC donates all net proceeds, and tuna catches to the Oregon Food Bank and Ducks Unlimited.
About Schooner Creek Boat Works
Founded in 1977, Schooner Creek Boat Works is one of the Northwest’s premier boatbuilding and repair facilities. Located in Portland, OR, they are committed to quality craftsmanship, innovation, and supporting the maritime community through events, education, and sponsorship.
About Oregon Food Bank
Oregon Food Bank works to eliminate hunger and its root causes through food distribution, community programs, and advocacy. Serving communities across Oregon and Southwest Washington, the organization connects millions of people to nourishing food each year. Partnerships like the Oregon Tuna Classic provide vital sources of fresh protein, helping families and individuals thrive.