A sport fisherman has landed a bluefin tuna weighing 446 pounds off the coast of San Diego, setting a potential world record for the largest bluefin caught using a rod and reel. The fish was brought to Tunaville Market and Grocery in Point Loma, a business that supplies local restaurants.
Markus Medak, with Shearwater Fishing, caught the massive tuna with the assistance of another fisherman. After being gilled and gutted, the fish weighed 446 pounds. This catch is considered a significant event for San Diego and the sportfishing community.
The owner of Tunaville Market and Grocery, Tommy Gomes, noted that the current "Super El Niño" weather pattern might be contributing to more unusual sea creatures, including bluefin tuna, appearing in Southern California waters. The tuna was prepared and served in a live demonstration at a local restaurant, with assurances that all parts of the fish would be utilized, including its spinal fluid, which is considered a delicacy in some cultures.
The catch highlights a more traditional outdoor activity, with Gomes expressing a sentiment that "The world needs more tackle boxes and less Xboxes," emphasizing the importance of teaching younger generations about fishing.