fter a three-year break from marlin fishing, it was finally time to put the fly rod aside and pick up the heavy big-game tackle once again. The destination: Cabo Verde -one of the world’s premier Blue Marlin fisheries. This season, we introduced state-of-the-art sonar technology aboard our boats SMOKER and The Hooker. The system scans the water in a radius of up to 700 meters, providing a real-time view of everything swimming beneath and around the boat. When targeting billfish, this technology opens up entirely new possibilities and has truly become a game changer.

ince the FIFA World Cup, Cabo Verde has become familiar to many people around the world. It was impressive to see how positively São Vicente has developed over the years. From the moment you arrive, the modern infrastructure stands out: digital immigration terminals, short waiting times, and a well-organized airport. Little remains of the devastating storms that hit the island last year. Mindelo once again exceeded my expectations. The city has a relaxed atmosphere, the locals are warm, welcoming, and genuinely proud of their island. It’s this unique blend of authentic Cape Verdean culture and world-class fishing that makes São Vicente so much more than just another angling destination.

uring our stay, we were based at Hotel Casamarel, which I can highly recommend. This charming boutique hotel offers excellent cuisine, outstanding hospitality, and the perfect place to unwind after a long day on the Atlantic. More information: www.casamarelhotel.com

Together with my fishing partner Marco, I spent ten unforgettable days aboard The Hooker. By the end of the trip, we had successfully released 12 Blue Marlin, the largest estimated at 750 lbs. As always, every fish was tagged and released. Catch & Release is an essential part of responsible marlin fishing and something we strongly believe in.

For the Statistics

• 12 Blue Marlin released, up to 750 lbs
• 7 out of 7 successful hook-ups on Pitch Bait
• 5 out of 10 fish landed on Lures
• 12 additional Blue Marlin raised to our teasers but refused the bait

One encounter, however, will stay with me forever. On our second day, a truly enormous Blue Marlin appeared behind our teaser spread. We estimated the fish at well over 1,000 lbs – without doubt one of the largest marlin I have ever seen behind a teaser. Unfortunately, even this giant refused our bait and disappeared back into the deep blue. Moments like these are what make marlin fishing so addictive. You never know what might appear behind the boat – and that’s exactly why you keep coming back.

Between fishing days, I deliberately took one day off to explore São Vicente. One place I particularly wanted to visit was the SIMABO Animal Shelter and Veterinary Clinic, an organization that is very close to my heart. I was genuinely impressed by the dedication of the entire team. With incredible passion and commitment, they care for injured and abandoned animals under often challenging conditions. Since SIMABO relies largely on donations, every contribution makes a real difference. If you would like to support this wonderful organization, please visit: www.simabo.org

Twelve Blue Marlin in ten days, cutting-edge sonar technology, an outstanding crew, and the unique atmosphere of São Vicente made this another unforgettable adventure. Yet, despite all the success, the memory that stays with me most is the giant marlin of well over 1,000 lbs that refused our bait.

Maybe that’s exactly why I already know one thing for certain: I’ll be back.

A Special Thank You

A huge thank you to our outstanding crew:

Capt. Olaf Grimkowski
Jesse De Freitas
Adilson Mendes Alves

Your professionalism, dedication, and teamwork made this trip truly exceptional.

Tight Lines

Stephan Kreupl