A white marlin tagged off Virginia Beach in 2017 has just been recaptured in Gulf waters after 7.5 years at large according to officials with The Billfish Foundation.
As the crow flies, the distance between the tagging and recapture points equated to ~963 miles, but the actual distance was likely twice that as this white marlin had to make its way around South Florida and the Keys and up to Venice, Louisiana.
Originally weighing 60 lbs, this marlin was recaptured at a healthy 78 lbs still in excellent condition. This is more than a great fishing story, it’s a powerful data point that deepens our understanding of marlin growth, migration, and survival.
Thanks to the anglers and captains who made this possible, and to all who support TBF’s tagging efforts.
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The white marlin is a prized species of billfish inhabiting the warm, offshore waters of the Atlantic Ocean, from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea to the coasts of West Africa and Europe. Typically smaller than its cousin, the blue marlin, the white marlin usually measures between 5 to 7 feet in length and weighs 40 to 80 pounds, though larger specimens occasionally exceed 100 pounds. Its body is streamlined and torpedo-shaped, adapted for speed and agility, with a distinctively rounded dorsal fin and a long, slender bill.
White marlin are highly migratory, traveling thousands of miles annually in search of food and optimal water temperatures, typically between 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F). They use their sharp bill not only to slash through schools of baitfish but also to stun or injure prey before consumption. Unlike many other fish, white marlin are partially warm-blooded, which allows them to maintain a higher body temperature in cooler waters and enhances their speed and hunting efficiency. Their lifespan is estimated at around 10 to 12 years. Spawning usually occurs in late spring to early summer, when females release millions of eggs into the open ocean, relying on sheer numbers to ensure some survive to adulthood.
White marlin are powerful predators, feeding primarily on squid, mackerel, and other small fish. They are known for their acrobatic leaps and strong fighting ability, making them a highly sought-after catch for sport fishermen. The species is typically solitary but can sometimes be found in small groups, especially where prey is abundant.
