The massive blue marlin, estimated to weigh roughly the same as an adult male grizzly bear, was pulled aboard after a coordinated effort by Stockfelt and his crew of anglers, marking the biggest single catch recorded at the popular San Diego fishing spot.
According to Stockfelt, the previous record at Fishermen’s Landing stood at about 598 pounds, making the new catch nearly 150 pounds heavier and establishing a new benchmark for sport‑caught fish in the region.
The 65‑foot vessel required nearly every hand on deck to lift the marlin onto the boat, a testament to the size of the fish and the teamwork of the crew.
Just days earlier, a pair of San Diego fishermen had landed a 500‑pound bluefin tuna that would have set a state record, but the catch was deemed ineligible because it was taken commercially; only sport‑caught fish qualify for official records.
Industry observers say this season could produce more extraordinary catches, as El Niño weather patterns are drawing exotic marine species to Southern California waters, a trend highlighted by Tunaville Market owner Tommy Gomes, who told FOX5 the current conditions are “expected to be one for the books.”