Catch of a lifetime: Sambro, N.S., fishermen harpoon swordfish in harbour
When the fishing boat Midnight Magic set sail on Friday, fishermen in Sambro, N.S., had little idea what kind of fish tale they would soon be able to share.
For the first time in 41 years, a swordfish weighing more than 200 lbs was harpooned and hauled aboard the fishing vessel from the Sambro Harbour by fisherman Grant Garrison.
(Courtesy: Cathy Deyoung)
Records show the last swordfish caught in those waters occurred on Aug. 21, 1981, by Paddy Grey. A newspaper that covered the event says that the fish weighed in at almost 600 lbs.
Records show the last swordfish caught in those waters occurred on Aug. 21, 1981, by Paddy Grey.
From a size perspective, some swordfish can grow over 1,100 lbs however, studies show the average tends to weigh between 50 and 200 lbs.
The newspaper article said Grey and his team were headed home when he noticed a shark-like fin along the ocean. After two hours and with the assistance of fisherman Danny Henneberry, the large fish was harpooned out of the water – an event that wouldn't occur again until 2022.
A newspaper that covered the event says that the fish weighed in at almost 600 lbs. (Courtesy: Danielle Henneberry)
By the looks of history, these catches have a record of being rare in the area. The first swordfish to be caught before 1981 happened 50 years prior.
According to the DFO says the Atlantic Swordfish Fishery started commercially in the late 1880s however, recorded landings dropped significantly in the 1970s when harpooning was replaced by longlines.
The U.S. authorities say Atlantic swordfish can swim faster than 80 km/h, making them one of the fastest predators in the ocean.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.