As the world’s oldest seaport celebrates a significant landmark – the 400th anniversary of Gloucester (commemorated in 2023) – the region’s top captains are back to make history themselves. The Wicked Tuna fleet finds a healthy bluefin stock and sets out to catch more ‘monstah’ fish than ever. The bluefin are SUPERSIZED, which means more money at the scales and the most action-packed season yet.
Captain TJ Ott of the F/V Hot Tuna is last season’s returning champion and is eager to defend his title. Captain Bob Cook of the F/V Fat Tuna and his mates made a significant change this year with a brand-new boat under construction for two and a half years. They’re eager to get out on the water to recoup their investment.
After dealing with health issues and the passing of his father last season, Captain Dave Marciano of the F/V Hard Merchandise and his crew are back in fighting form and feel nothing holding them back from taking the title this season.
The all-lady crew of F/V No Limits was the newcomer to the Wicked Tuna fleet last season, and Capt. Michelle Bancewicz had to have her engine rebuilt in the offseason. A single mom who has put it all on the line to make fishing her career, she would love to be the first boat to catch fish this season and make a run for the championship.
Captain Tyler McLaughlin of the F/V Pinwheel is a two-time returning champion who is ready to “kick some butt” this season. He knows the bluefin stock is healthy, and there is a lot of tuna available, and he is ready to catch his share.
read more at nationalfisherman.com
