BREAKING NEWS

World Record Grouper

One of The Pemba Channel Fishing Club's Bertram's "Shuwari", on one of its charters to Dar es Salaam in March, 2004 while fishing out of Latham Island hooked up and boated a Giant Grouper weighing 179.5 kg. This is a pending world record.

Nelson Shayne and a couple of friends chartered "Shuwari" for a trip to Latham Island, Dar es Salaam. Shuwari, skippered by Madelena Martinengo, assisted by Mohamed Baraza, Jason Alexio and Cosmus made the long haul to the island in the early hours of the morning. Fishing at Latham had been slow for the last few weeks so it was decided to live bait for Giant Trevally, Dog Tooth Tuna and whatever else might be lurking in the nearby waters.

A couple of rainbow runner were rigged live and trawled along the drop-offs near the island in less than 60 meters of water. It was not long before the live bait on the down rigger was taken and battle commenced. A battle lasting about 30 minutes, on 60 kg line, and a Giant Grouper of 179.5 kg was the surprise of the day. Nobody on board suspected it would be a Giant Grouper as Giant Trevally were being caught in the main, with the odd shark and other reef fish.

The battle with the fish was short and sweet, however getting the creature on board proved to be a more difficult task. Without a transom door it was difficult. Eventually with ropes attached to the flying bridge ladder and 7 able bodied people the fish was finally lifted on board.

Pictures and measurements were sent to the IGFA for identification and we can confirm that all the necessary formalities have been completed and a claim has now been lodged with IGFA. We await ratification.

Congrtulations to the angler and the crew of "Shuwari"