How the Croaker Classic Hooked the Gulf Coast | The Marty Wilson Story
How One Man Turned a Backyard Fishing Idea Into a Biloxi Tradition
Marty Wilson didn’t set out to launch a Gulf Coast fishing staple. But 14 years after the first lines hit the water, the Back Bay Croaker Classic has become exactly that: a beloved local tradition that blends friendly competition with pure community pride.
“We just wanted to get folks together,” Marty said on Brown Water Banter. “It started as a fun little thing, and it blew up into something nobody expected.”
📃 From Backyard Party to Back Bay Phenomenon
The first Croaker Classic wasn’t much more than a few friends, a grill, and a livewell full of good intentions. But from the beginning, Marty had a vision.
“We kept the rules simple,” he said. “Just get out there, have fun, weigh your fish, and enjoy the party. That was the heartbeat of it from day one.”
The tournament’s down-to-earth vibe and all-ages atmosphere helped it grow organically. Locals brought their kids. Boat ramps filled up. By year five, it was drawing serious attention.
🚀 Powered by Passion, Not Payouts
What makes the Croaker Classic special isn’t the prize money—it’s the people.
“Nobody’s getting rich off this,” Marty laughed. “We do it because it’s ours. It’s about the water, the neighborhood, the stories.”
The tournament runs lean, with sponsors pitching in and volunteers running the weigh stations. Every year, Marty makes a point to honor those who help keep the lines tight and the coolers full.
🌟 More Than Just Fishing
Beyond the competition, the Classic has become a staple of Gulf Coast culture. There’s live music, raffles, plenty of cold drinks, and that unmistakable feeling that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
“I see kids who came to the first tournament now bringing their own kids,” Marty said. “That’s the part that gets me.”
The event has even started attracting folks from out of state. But for Marty, it’ll always be about Biloxi.
📻 Want the Full Story?
Tap below to listen to Marty Wilson tell it himself — the laughs, the lessons, and the legacy of the Croaker Classic:
★ Listen on the Brown Water Banter App
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