Record-breaking blue marlin catch could net $6.5 million in NC fishing tournament

ATLANTIC BEACH, NC — A nearly 920-pound blue marlin reeled in during the 68th annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, could earn its crew more than $6.5 million if it holds the top spot on the leaderboard.

The crew of the Marlin Fever landed the 919.9-pound fish Tuesday after a fight that lasted about two hours. Tournament organizers say it is the heaviest blue marlin ever weighed in at the event, which dates back to 1957.

For teenage angler Connor Daniel, the experience was almost too intense to process.

"It's like a blur went by," Daniel said. "I don't really remember any of it right now."

Mate Justin Petrilli said the moment the fish broke the surface made him think twice.

"I knew it was big, but when we actually saw it jumping, I was like, 'No, that's too big. I don't want that one. Next one please,'" Petrilli said.

Captain Cameron Guthrie said the potential payday is almost hard to comprehend.

"It's hard to even think about that much money, but it's a good year to do it, I guess," Guthrie said.

While the crew waits to see if the catch holds up for the top prize, Daniel said he has his eyes on a more personal reward.

"My dad said he'd get us a hot tub if we win. So, might get a hot tub, actually. That'll be nice," Daniel said.

The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, one of the largest sport fishing events in the United States, kicked off Monday and runs through Saturday in Morehead City. After the tournament concludes, the marlin will be sent to NC State University, where marine science researchers will gather data from it.