Unbelievable Records

[nelz]

I was going through highlights of some IGFA records on another website, Sport Fisherman I think, and saw some quite unbelievable ones. For example, 200+ lb marlin on 6# line in under 7 minutes??? There are even more unbelievable ones for 2# line.

How the heck are such accomplishments even possible? Boat handling was credited in all cases of these, but still, HOW??? Just curious if anyone here can offer an explanation.

[Keta]

Hook up, back down fast, leaderman grabs heavy leader and the fish is a record.

If the old records are available look at the mid 80's to late 90's 6kg chum salmon record.   

[Makule]

Maybe with such small line, it's possible to hook the fish without its knowing.  Then just carefully move up to the fish and hit it with a harpoon.

A guy, named Stu Apte, used to specialize in light fly fishing for blue water species.

[nelz]

LOL, thanks guys, I think both methods have probably been used. However, both are cheating IMHO!

[saltydog]

All I can say is it is possible, I have caught many fish on 2,4,6 pound class tackle that would just make you think no way. Like my best smallmouth buffalo is 52 pounds on 4# line caught while bluegill fishing and there was that 53# longnose gar on 2# while pitching meal worms for perch. It all comes down to good tackle, smooth drags, skill, and a whole lot of luck.

[nelz]

I'm sure those took you quite a long time to land though, right?  Not like the 231lb Marlin on 2# line in 10 minutes. It's in the books.

[saltydog]

No they fought for a long time , I think the gar was over an hour and the buffalo was around 40 minutes. Sounds like the marlin was struck in the face with a bait while asleep and didn't know he was hooked till the gaff hit him.

[Bunnlevel Sharker]

Yep they hook up, back down, gaff, and repeat the cheat!