A huge boca grande goliath grouper - handlined!

Boca Grande is usually known for its tail-walking tarpon and nightmarish sharks, but there's one fishery that consistently goes overlooked in that region which presents a true test of angling strength. Although Goliath Grouper are protected, they are stubborn and powerful once hooked. Landing them is no easy battle. Their size and weight is often enough to devastate steel hooks and braided lines.

I'd never seen one hand-lined to the surface until i caught this recent post from Ben Chancey.


I like to think most dedicated fishermen aspire to the iconic symbolism of Santiago battling the great marlin. I've always held a strange fascination with hand-lining for big game. Like most anglers who partake in this primal form of fishing, there's always a select few pushing the limits.


Cheers to that! Be sure to check out this great clip of a hand lined bluefin tuna. Craziness!

Tight Lines,

C.