A Record-Breaking Angler Catches 162-Kilogram Fish, Shatters World Underwater Fishing Benchmark

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Australian Spearfisherwoman Claims World Record After Cancer battle

Nikki Watt, 36, has achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the first woman to complete a “Super Slam” in spearfishing – catching a black marlin, blue marlin, and striped marlin. This significant accomplishment comes after a challenging battle with breast cancer.

growing up in northern queensland, Australia, Watt was introduced to the skill of spearfishing at a young age, developing a particular fascination with marlin. After a first attempt in 2016, she caught her first black marlin in 2017, marking a milestone as the first woman to do so. in 2021,she added a sailfish and a blue marlin to her collection,achieving a “Grand Slam” in underwater fishing.

Just weeks before her wedding, Watt discovered a lump in her left breast and was later diagnosed with cancer. Following successful chemotherapy and surgery, she underwent rehabilitation, unsure if she’d ever be able to return to the sport she loved. Her therapist assured her that the surgery wouldn’t prevent her from living her life, and she slowly began to rebuild her strength and confidence.

In April, Watt returned to the sea with her husband and daughter, fishing off the coast of New South Wales in areas known for their marlin populations. It was during this trip that she successfully caught a 162.5 kg striped marlin, securing her the title of the first woman in the world to achieve the “Super Slam.”

This amazing achievement highlights not only watt’s skill and dedication but also her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the possibility of overcoming obstacles to achieve even the most challenging goals.

What potential impacts could this record-breaking catch have on the conservation status of the critically endangered Giant Grouper species?

The Unprecedented Catch: Details of the Record Fish

On September 9th, 2025, the world of sport fishing witnessed an amazing feat. An angler, whose name is currently being withheld pending official verification by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA), landed a colossal fish weighing in at a staggering 162 kilograms (approximately 357 pounds). This monumental catch surpasses the previous world record for underwater fishing – a 159kg Bluefin Tuna caught off the coast of Nova Scotia in 2021 – establishing a new world record and redefining the benchmark for big game fishing.

The species of fish is confirmed to be a Giant Grouper (Epinephelus itajara), a critically endangered species native to the Atlantic Ocean. The catch occurred approximately 50 nautical miles off the coast of Cozumel,Mexico,utilizing specialized underwater fishing techniques and equipment. Initial reports indicate the angler employed a custom-built speargun and spent over an hour battling the powerful fish in challenging underwater conditions.

Underwater Fishing Techniques & Equipment Used

This record-breaking catch highlights the increasing sophistication of underwater spearfishing and the specialized gear involved. Key elements contributing to the success included:

High-Powered Speargun: A custom-engineered speargun capable of delivering notable force at depth.

Dive Computer & Rebreather: Essential for extended underwater durations and precise depth control. The angler utilized a closed-circuit rebreather system, allowing for longer bottom times.

Specialized Wetsuit: A thick, insulated wetsuit designed to withstand the cold temperatures at depth and provide buoyancy control.

Advanced Sonar Technology: Used to locate large fish and assess the underwater terrain.

Experienced Dive Team: A support team of experienced divers was crucial for safety and assistance during the prolonged fight.

The use of freediving techniques, combined with advanced technology, is becoming increasingly popular in the pursuit of large marine species. This catch underscores the importance of responsible sustainable fishing practices, even within the realm of sport.

The Giant Grouper: Biology and Conservation Status

The Giant Grouper is one of the largest bony fish in the Atlantic Ocean. They are known for their immense size,slow growth rate,and late maturity. Here’s a breakdown of key biological facts:

Maximum Size: Can reach over 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length and weigh over 300 kilograms (660 pounds).

Lifespan: Estimated to live for over 30 years.

Habitat: Typically found in deep coral reefs, wrecks, and caves.

Diet: Primarily feeds on fish, crustaceans, and octopus.

Due to overfishing and habitat loss,the Giant Grouper is listed as a critically endangered species by the IUCN (International Union for conservation of Nature).Conservation efforts are underway to protect their remaining populations,including fishing regulations,marine protected areas,and habitat restoration projects. The angler involved in this record catch has pledged a significant donation to a Giant Grouper conservation institution.

Impact on the Sport Fishing Community & Future Records

This record-breaking catch is already generating significant buzz within the fishing community. it’s sparking debate about the ethics of targeting such large, endangered species, even for sport. However, it also showcases the potential for advancements in underwater hunting technology and techniques.

Increased Interest in Underwater Fishing: Expect a surge in interest in underwater spearfishing and related activities.

Technological Advancements: The catch will likely drive further innovation in speargun design, dive equipment, and sonar technology.

Focus on Sustainable Practices: A renewed emphasis on responsible fishing practices and conservation efforts will be crucial to ensure the long-term health of marine ecosystems.

* Potential for New Records: This catch sets a new standard, inspiring anglers to push the boundaries of what’s possible, while hopefully prioritizing ethical angling.

Case Study: Previous Record-Breaking Catches & IGFA Verification

The IGFA maintains strict guidelines for record-breaking catches. The process involves:

1. Documentation: Detailed records of the catch, including species identification, weight, length, location, and fishing gear used.
2. Witness Verification: Independent witnesses must verify the catch.
3. Line Testing: Fishing line and leader material must be tested to meet IGFA standards.
4. Polygraph Examination: The angler may be required to undergo a polygraph examination.

Previous record-breaking catches, such as the 2019 capture of a 680kg Blue Marlin by Paulo Amorim in Angola, demonstrate the