Marlin

For more than 35 years, Marlin has empowered big-game offshore fishing enthusiasts through an engaging mix of adventure, nostalgia and camaraderie. The thrill of the sport comes alive with engaging content on dynamic personalities, the finest sport-fishing vessels, latest equipment, techniques and hottest billfishing destinations.

THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR

Marlin • ISSUE 291 2025 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER

Before the Strike

Players

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • Whether in the cockpit, at the hunting camp or at home around the fireplace, this holiday season is the perfect time to spoil the anglers in your life (yourself included). High-tech gadgets, seaworthy gear, personal artwork and fun toys-Marlin’s holiday gift guide reels in the best for big-game anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

FAIR WINDS AND FOLLOWING SEAS • Remembering the legacies of Bill Healey and Dr. Harry Shufflebarger

A BIG NIGHT FOR BIG-GAME ANGLING • The IGFA enshrines six big-game legends at its 2025 Fishing Hall of Fame induction ceremony

THE PERFECT DAY • A captain’s family gets offshore for the first time

BACKING IT UP • From linen to braid, the evolution of backing and top shots continues to define modern big-game fishing practices

THE CHARTER CAPTAIN • A legacy built in Hatteras Village

Destination SoCal • From the pioneering days of the sport to today’s revived scene, Southern California’s waters are a world-class stage for offshore adventure

DON’T SLEEP ON PORT STEPHENS • Why this famed fishery should be on your big-game bucket list

NEW BOATS OF 2026 • A sneak peek at some of the hottest new builds to splash in the coming year

We Are Big Game

MARLIN EXPEDITIONS 2026 • The year of big fish, wild places and next-level learning

A NEW ERA FOR THE HAWAII MARLIN TOURNAMENT SERIES • 2025 ushers in exciting new energy for the legendary series

2025 HMTS FINAL STANDINGS

SCRUB ISLAND SHINES IN THE BVI • World-class fishing and island luxury define the 2025 Scrub Island Billfish Series on the legendary North Drop

Run & Gun

WHITE LIGHTNING • Big fish and hefty payouts at the 52nd Annual White Marlin Open

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS • What you need to know about putting a skiff on the bow of your sporty

DA BAIT—RYBOVICH 70 • Michael Rybovich & Sons delivers a no-nonsense bluewater machine

MERRITT’S BOAT & ENGINE WORKS BROKERAGE

THE SMALL WORLD OF SPORT FISHING • Each year at FLIBS, the old guard meets the future at the crossroads of sport fishing