Famed Angler Stewart Campbell Pulled Overboard by Marlin

[Captain Rich]

1. This incident happened about fifteen to twenty years ago, you can google to get the actual date.
2. The gentleman in question was a world class angler with many, many large marlin released, including granders. He was on the board of the IGFA, fishbox to call him names or think he didn't know what he was doing, only shows your lack of knowlege. Your spelling of "PROFESINAL" can use some work too.

[Jigsmith]

Wow I guess all the experts have spoken. What don't you get? Several hundred pounds of angry fish, heavy line tip wrapped, angler strapped in equals what you saw. It happens sometimes. Backing down the drag in that situation won't do diddley. Stay at home in your easy chairs where it's safe and you can critisize others on the internet. The guy was far far far from a beginner.

[Captain Rich]

I think sometimes people are to quick to point fingers and second guess, without the experience or knowlege to back up their opinions. I was busy before and really couldn't provide details, I have some time now.The dunking incident occured in 1996. This man was a giant in the sportfishing world, he was the first individual to catch two grander blue marlin, 1141 lbs. and then three days later 1038 lbs. He held 15 light tackle world records, (fishbox and problemfisherman--how many do you have??), he held the record for most giant bluefin tuna caught in one day- 73, He was named to the IGFA Hall of Fame and was an IGFA Trustee. He passed away August 4th, age 79. I met him once, you two need to know more about your hobby before you pass judgement on others.

[Offshoreafflicted]

Looks to me like he saw it was wrapped on the tip and tried to unwrap it and when he could not reach it was in the process of unhooking the reel from the harness when he was pulled over. Not much he could have done there. It's amazing he was able to get back in the boat with the rod. I think the only way to avoid that would be to use a safety line attaching the angler to the boat, which I believe is against IGFA rules.

[jenny lee sportfishing]

rich, one of the alltime greatest human beings and anglers. no respect!

[Capt Sal]

Ditto !!

[Reel Class]

That was one big marlin!! I really don't know who Stewart Campbell is since I'm not a big game guy, but reading his accomplishments certainly validates him being a real pro. This goes to show that stuff can happen even to the best of us when the unforeseen happens wayyyy too fast!

[mahigold]

i believe safety lines(rod or harness) are within IGFA rules as long as it is not used to aid the fight . I bot an angler mate safety harness for my young son and confirmed it with the igfa at the time.

[Capt. Lou]

If my memory serves me well not only was Stewart Campbell a great marlin angler but a local Capt use to run his boat the Grander out of Montauk I believe. Rich Barrett son of Pete Barrett editor of NJ Fisherman did for many years. They were a great team for many seasons & caught more Marlin in one day than many on this board will ever see. I'm not sure why this episiode is so significant " now" since I'm sure it happened many years ago. To critize an angler of his stature is beyond me.

[jenny lee sportfishing]

wrong guy that was mel imagret who owned the grander, and richy did run it