Posted by jas on April 21, 2002 at 12:51:26:
In Reply to: Malibu Report, 4-16, Marlin, Mantis and One Big 'Butt posted by Whitey on April 21, 2002 at 12:49:27:
: Hi, all. Launched at the 76 station about 7:00. Wind was blowing cool and up the coast (wrong direction). Headed north trolling for nada. Turned back around Esco and tried the edges of the kelp for more nada.
: Moved inside off Latigo and started getting into the mud-marlin. I actually had three poles going at once! Try that for some excitement. Ended up catching 5 or 6 'marlins and one Mantis Shrimp. Caught a small Sandie on plastic, then another two bigger ones (all released). Wind settled down and the day became very nice. Finally got a BIG hit on a sardine-colored FT. Big head shake, all the correct signs, but I was still surprised to see a big 'Butt come to color. With pounding pulse I proceeded to blow the first gaffing attempt, sending the 'Butt back to the bottom with a hole in it's head. Got it solidly on the second try. About 30" and 10-12#s. I don't know the weight because my digital scale went over the cliff at La Bufadora for being untrustworthy. Anyway, a great ending to another beautiful day on the water. BTW, I caught a similar-sized 'Butt in Sept. in the exact same spot and depth. A hole, perhaps? Details on the exact location are a little unclear...
: Tight lines, Whitey