How to Fight Big Game Fish

Hooking a big fish is only the start. Landing it depends on technique, teamwork, and patience. Shorter fights are better for anglers and for fish that will be released. Here are the fundamentals of fighting big game fish on trolling tackle.

The first run

After the hookup, a big fish will often make a long, fast run. Let it go. Keep the rod in the holder or get into the harness, keep the drag at strike, and avoid touching the spool. The driver keeps the boat moving forward briefly to clear other lines, then slows to follow the fish if needed.

Short-stroking

Once the fish stops, gain line with short, quick pumps. Lift the rod a short distance, then reel down quickly as you lower it. Short strokes keep constant pressure on the fish and gain line faster than long, slow pumps.

Using your body

With stand-up gear, use your legs and hips, not your arms. Lean back into a harness and let your body weight do the work. In a fighting chair, push with your legs against the footrest.

Drag

Fight most of the time at strike drag. Push to full drag when the fish is tired or close to the boat. Remember that drag increases as the spool empties, so back off slightly if the fish has taken a lot of line. See trolling reel drag settings.

Boat handling

The captain can shorten fights dramatically. Backing down on a fish or running to keep the line at a good angle reduces the amount of line the angler has to recover. Keep the line out of the props and away from the hull.

Deep fish

Tuna often circle deep under the boat. Change angles by moving the boat so the angler can lift the fish rather than pulling straight up.

At the boat

The wireman takes the leader with gloves and wraps it safely, ready to let go instantly.
Never wrap leader around a bare hand.
The gaffer or release crew works only when the fish is under control.
For release fish, keep them in the water and revive them before letting go.