The Church Mouse Marlin Invitational Tournament was started 18 years ago in Avalon. From 18 boats and 75 anglers in 1991 it has grown to over 100 boats and 500 anglers. Through the years this tournament has donated in excess of $628,000 to Catalina Island youth groups.

In 2004 they went to a 100% release tournament. With their first priority being the preservation of the local marlin. In this way they included more boats and sponsors who previously could not participate in a kill tournament. This made the 14th Annual Church Mouse Invitational the largest relase tournament on the West Coast.

New this year they are having a new way to win. "Fish Close, Win Big" for fish hooked and released closest to Avalon. All winning boats receive major prizes such as Mexico hotel packages, Suzuki Ourboard motor, rods, reels, out riggers, coolers, major marine equipment and much more.

All tax decuctible cash doncations go to Catalina Island youth groups.