In an extraordinary display of fishing prowess, a team aboard the 'High Hopes' charter boat achieved a remarkable feat by catching an immense bluefin tuna, weighing a staggering 835.8 pounds, off the Virginia coastline. This catch not only established a new state record but also highlighted the dedication and skill involved in big-game fishing. The success, spearheaded by Captain David Wright and angler Mike Rogerson, became a notable moment in the recreational fishing community, drawing attention for its sheer scale and the challenging conditions under which it was accomplished.
Record-Setting Tuna Haul in Virginia Waters
On a memorable Saturday, Captain David Wright, a seasoned charter operator with decades of experience off Virginia Beach, navigated his vessel, the 'High Hopes', through thick fog. His team was embarking on a bluefin tuna expedition, a pursuit that had seen them lose a large fish previously in the newly opened recreational season since January 1st. Despite the challenging visibility, Wright, adapting his strategy on the fly, directed his boat approximately 8 to 10 miles offshore, towards the edge of Smith Island Flats, where the waters are around 48 feet deep.
After an initial quiet period, the tranquil morning was dramatically interrupted by a colossal strike. Angler Mike Rogerson, in his twenties, took on the formidable task of battling the giant fish using a custom rod paired with a Penn 80 international reel. The struggle lasted a grueling 90 minutes, a testament to the tuna's immense power and Rogerson's endurance. Captain Wright vividly described the strike as "the most amazing bite I’ve ever had," emphasizing the explosive splash that erupted from the dense fog, reaching over 15 feet into the air. The fish's erratic movements, darting away and then returning, created a prolonged stalemate, but Rogerson remained steadfast.
Crucially, first mate Andrew Flory played a pivotal role, maintaining vigilance over the line as the massive creature fought tirelessly. Once the giant tuna, measuring an astounding 108 inches in length with a 95-inch girth, finally rolled belly-up, Flawlessly secured it with a hand gaff and a rope around its tail. The entire crew then collaborated to haul the magnificent catch onto the boat. Upon their return to the Virginia Beach Fishing Center, the tuna was officially weighed at 835.8 pounds on a certified scale, with a representative from the Virginia Marine Resources Commission present to authenticate the new state record. This impressive catch significantly surpassed the previous record of 720 pounds, set just the day before by Robbie Brown, a friend of Captain Wright's, making it a truly exceptional and historic achievement in Virginia's angling history.
This remarkable catch serves as an inspiring narrative of perseverance, skill, and the profound connection between humans and the natural world. It reminds us that even in the face of unpredictable conditions, the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of a challenge can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. Beyond the thrill of the catch, it also highlights the vital role of teamwork and the strategic acumen required in deep-sea fishing. For anglers and enthusiasts alike, this event underscores the excitement and potential for discovery that lies within our oceans, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sport of fishing.