Marlin January/February 2025

Change has a way of shaking us out of comfort, challenging the habits and conformity that build over time. It offers both risk and opportunity, uncertainty and freedom. Change prompts questions, sparks doubts—and yet it opens the door to growth. Consider Ferdinand Magellan. Even with unshakable confidence in his belief, one can imagine a whisper of doubt lingering in his mind: What if the earth really is flat? But he forged ahead, defying the status quo and altering the course of human history. Progress is built by those who dare to question, to step beyond their comfort zones. While we’re not charting a new course around the earth, we are navigating a transformative moment in the magazine’s own journey. In 2023, Marlin magazine became the sole marine publication under its…

The Pacific waters off Panama are one of the only places in the world where anglers can consistently chase black marlin year-round. From the Zane Grey Reef in the winter to the drop-off in the summer, the fishermen in Piñas Bay live to chase black marlin. Capt. Gavi Cordoba and angler Luke Lehman found this fish patrolling the shelf in early July while pulling teasers. After an exhausting two hours and five minutes, Lehman brought the fish to leader, where it put on an aerial display, allowing photographer Charlie Shalley to capture this incredible shot.…

It’s rare in today’s world when you find a business that operates under the seemingly vanishing doctrine of “quality over quantity.” Many preach this overused phrase, but few actually follow through. Bill Buckland never envisioned a career in the fishing-tackle industry. Yet over the past four decades he’s built one of the most recognized names in the big-game tackle world with his shop, Fisherman’s Center, and has outfitted some of the top boats in the world along the way. He’s done that not by franchising out his name to the highest bidder, but because he prides himself on providing the best possible customer service. The Forbes list can wait. What was your introduction to fishing? I didn’t really come from a fishing family, so my introduction to fishing was probably…

AFTCO The top-tier option from an industry staple, AFTCO’s Fortress Rain Suit (A) offers the highest waterproof rating with exceptional breathability. Built for the toughest conditions, this jacket and bib combo keeps water out, stays secure in strong winds, and offers unrestricted movement with its articulated fit. Pair with AFTCO’s new waterproof Breakwater Gloves (B) for total protection in cold, wet or windy conditions. COLUMBIA A longstanding household name in the outdoor space for good reason, Columbia’s new PFG Force XII Collection is worth a look if you’re in the market for new foul-weather gear. Featuring its proprietary ODX OutDry Extreme fabric, the jacket (A) and bib (B) set offers superior waterproofing and breathability. Thoughtfully designed with anglers in mind, the jacket includes a high-collar hood, adjustable cuffs and reflective…

Q: HOW DO YOU BATTLE FISHING BURNOUT? WALLIS HIGGINBOTHAM OWNER OF GRAND SLAM NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FLORIDA We’re lucky to maintain a balance between competitive tournament fishing and fun fishing. Easygoing trips with family and friends break up the monotony or burn-out that can come from the tournament season. We also mix up our target species so things stay entertaining. When we’re in Costa Rica, we won’t target just sailfish. We’ll also fish for tuna or stay inshore for rooster-fish. Since we fish around 100 to 120 days per year, it’s important that we keep things fun and change things up. We go where the fish are biting and don’t stay in one place for too long, which also boosts morale. And the break during hunting season helps. CAPT. CHRIS…

The sport-fishing community has recently suffered an irreplaceable loss with the passing of two influential figures: Gail Morchower and Capt. David Salazar. Morchower, a passionate curator and librarian at the IGFA’s E.K. Harry Library of Fishes, dedicated over three decades to preserving the history of angling. Her work shaped the future of sport-fishing research and education. Capt. Salazar, a beloved captain and owner of Casa Vieja Lodge, was known for his boundless energy and commitment to both the sport and his family. Together with his wife, Kristen, David built a legacy that continues to inspire anglers worldwide. Both will be deeply missed. GAIL MORCHOWER Gail Morchower, longtime librarian and beloved curator of the IGFA E.K. Harry Library of Fishes, passed away on November 26, leaving a profound legacy in recreational…