The following is a preview of exclusive members-only content from My Fishing Cape Cod
Picture this: You're offshore in the early morning light, scanning the horizon for signs of life. Suddenly, the ocean erupts as powerful bluefin tuna crash through the surface in a feeding frenzy. Your heart races as you position the boat and prepare to cast—not with conventional gear, but with a fly rod.
Is it possible to land one of the ocean's most powerful predators on fly tackle? According to local expert fly angler captain Ian Bragdon, not only is it possible, it's the ultimate fly fishing achievement.
"Bluefin are the coolest fish ever," Ian explains in our exclusive podcast interview. "They're just powerful and fast and they just do everything cool."
After years of pursuing this dream, Ian and his fishing partners Zento Slinger and Nick Coelho succeeded in landing not just one, but two bluefin tuna on fly gear—including a 61-inch specimen that tested both equipment and anglers to their limits.
Our podcast guest Ian Bragdon (left) and Zento Slinger (right) holding up a bluefin tuna that snapped Ian's 12 weight fly rod. Despite the broken rod the guys were able to land this fish after an 80 minute battle. Continue reading below for the full story! Photo by Nick Coelho.
In our full members-only article and podcast, Ian breaks down:
- The specialized heavy-duty fly fishing setup required (including the exact rod weights, reel specifications, and line strengths)
- Where and when to find "fly rod feeds" that offer the best opportunity for success
- Critical tactical approaches that position you for the perfect cast
- The dramatic story of hooking and landing these powerful fish after years of trying
- Conservation considerations to ensure bluefin remain abundant for future anglers
As Ian describes the moment of success: "We were screaming, but then there was silence, and then we screamed again. I just sat there... I can't believe it. There's a bluefin with a fly right in its mouth. We did it."
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