Brooks wasn’t exactly doing back flips after pulling the #5 out of someone else’s stinky fishing hat, but that would be the worst thing to happen to him that day. After all, he was heading offshore in search of the prized Atlantic sailfish and maybe, just maybe that might be the lucky number in the rotation.

Once again, we found ourselves fishing with Capt. Terry Mutchler and veteran mate, Tom aboard the “Comin’ Home” out of Marathon in the keys. This Capt. is experienced with sailfish, in addition to everything else that swims, and this was our first shot getting out with him during the south Florida billfish season. We headed out of Hawk’s Channel at first light for the Gulf Stream. We would be fishing gamier tackle: 30# test on Penn 9500’s and pilchards would be the bait of choice. The ride out to the grounds is always a good chance to learn from Capt. Terry and this trip he told us about the finer points of hooking and playing a sailfish. The moment the line moves off after the pick up in a steady, continuous fashion, engage the drag, reel rapidly, and strike with several quick rod sweeps (when using J hooks). The hook set should be aggressive, in order to penetrate the solid inner surface of the bill. As for playing them, constant, steady pressure is the name of the game with strategic use of the drag when necessary.

Capt. Terry Mutchler far right	The beginning of another adventure

Sounded good to us and we couldn’t wait to put our lesson to the test. It would be a while, though. Most of the day was quiet with very little surface activity to speak of. Even birds were in short supply. On a few occasions, we’d see a flock working well off in the distance. Since it was so quiet, we’d go to investigate, only to find our feathered friends resting on the surface when we got there. Finally, about midday, the right rigger clip releases its line and a Penn 9500 heads off to the races. Everyone was waiting for a sail to break the surface, but this was something else. The Capt. knew it before anyone since he’d been watching the spread closely while most of us were daydreaming. A few minutes later, and one of our party brings a decent kingfish to the gaff and onto the ice. Not what we were looking for, but at least we wouldn't be skunked and everyone was awake, which always helps with the luck.

At this point, the day was ticking away and we decided we'd time the rotations to make sure everyone got a shot at something. Since Brooks was last in line, this brought him some hope. A few more hours would pass when it was finally his time. By now, everyone was talking about what a great trip it was, even though we didn’t land any sails. Brooks reminded the party we weren’t back at the marina yet so let’s keep talking business, as long as we’re out here. A short while later, the boat was quiet again. Except for the lulling sound of the idling twin diesels there wasn’t much going on. A few of the party had retreated into the salon to nap off the rest of the trip while Brooks manned the cockpit on his watch with Tom.

I was up on the bridge with Capt. Terry talking shop when he screamed, “Left rigger! Fish! Fish! Watch him! Get ready!” Now the boat was alive and kicking again and Brooks sprung into action ready to do battle. I did see something going after the pilchards, but still wasn’t sure what it was. Everything was happening fast. The mate, Tom, had been right there by the rig, and I watched him execute a textbook hook set just like the Capt. had described that morning. Suddenly, the surface opened up in an explosive spray and a shiny, gyrating, atlantic sail showed itself in full bloom. Brooks was busy putting on his belt and taking the handoff so he didn’t see it, but couldn’t miss me screaming, “Sailfish! Sail! It’s a sail!”

It didn’t take long for him and everyone else to get a chance to see it for them selves. This fish was lit up and putting on the performance of it’s life. Everyone cheered Brooks on as he gave it everything he had. Following several long runs and awesome jumps, it finally looked like Brooks was getting the upper hand. The fight was going on long enough now for him to start getting nervous about the lighter tackle holding up. But in the end, it was decided. Brooks would have his first sailfish added to a growing wall of fame.

A Quick Hug	The Sail Leaves His Mark	Time To Go Home

This was a healthy animal measuring in at 92” and much more beautiful in person than on any tv screen. Congratulations Brooks! Thanks, as always, to Capt. Terry and the crew for providing yet another incredible day of offshore big game fishing and the to the Faro Blanco Resort & Marina for the fine accomodations. We’ll see you all again soon.

Faro Blanco Resort & Marina