Fishing for marlin is an experience that fuels a significant fishing charter tourism industry and creates memories that will last a lifetime. That being said, it is not an experience where you can afford to take risks. Deep sea fishing requires know-how, equipment and adherence to safety procedures. When it comes to fish like marlin, sharks or other large and potentially dangerous fish, there are some basic rules you should follow to make sure you do it safely.
Here are some of the basic rules and safety tips you can follow to ensure your fishing trip for marlin is a positive and enjoyable one.
Hire a knowledgeable guide
Unless you are going with a group of seasoned fisherman, your first trip should be attended by a well-trained guide. Though the sea is beautiful, it can be a deceiving and deadly force. Many an experienced fisherman has lost his life on the ocean, so it is no place for a group of amateurs trying their hand at a new sport. Read up on guides to better understand what you should expect, and choose carefully.
Communicate with your crew
Imagine the chaos that comes right after you realize you have hooked the big fish you had been waiting for. Your line tightens, your rod bends and you shout to alert your friends that you have a “big one.” Now, the fish you have on your line does not want to be there, and it will fight hard. It will pull your line up and down, left and right. If you are not communicating with those around you, someone could get injured in the chaos.
Use safety equipment
Whether you are fishing for a trophy, the perfect photo opportunity or the harvest, handling the fish safely should be your main priority. Wearing heavy-duty gloves will protect your hands and keep them safe from injury when handling the fish, and while handling the line that hooked it. If you are not planning on harvesting the fish, leave it in the water to avoid injuring it. Because the bodies of billfish are not designed for non-aquatic environments, their organs can be put under stress when removed from the water.
Taking a trophy photo
Because handling the fish removes its protective slime coating, the best way to celebrate your catch is to take a photo of it while it is still in the water. To do this, use gloves to grab its bill and extend its dorsal fin, while keeping its lower jaw in the water to allow it to breathe properly. Have one of the crew snap a few pictures, and then release the fish. A true sportsman will appreciate the fact that their catch was returned safely to the ocean rather than potentially injuring it by pulling it onboard.
Follow these basic fishing safety tips and rules to take home memories of a lifetime. Between the exciting fishing experience and the phenomenal views from the Hawaiian waters, you’ll not want your fishing charter to end. Contact Sea Wife Charters to make reservations today!