In a remarkable display of angling prowess, the fishing vessel 'Gunpowder' set a new Atlantic record by releasing 27 blue marlin in a single day at Marina Cap Cana on November 3, 2025. The previous record, held since 2016, had stood at 23 releases.
"We couldn't believe what was happening. It felt like we were in the middle of a fishing dream, catching and releasing non-stop," said David Machado, the owner of 'Gunpowder'. The team's success didn't stop at just the record; they also hooked an additional eight marlin, bringing their total interactions to an impressive 35.
The Cap Cana region of the Dominican Republic has established itself as a premier destination for anglers, attracting those eager to battle the mighty blue marlin. With its consistent production of sizable catches, Marina Cap Cana has become the go-to hub for saltwater fishing enthusiasts.
"The fishing here is just incredible. This is a place where you can really feel the thrill of the catch, and the numbers show it," said Captain Jon Mitchell, who helmed 'Gunpowder' during the record-setting day.
Prior to this achievement, the competition was fierce during the Cap Cana Classic, a two-day tournament held in mid-October. The event featured 30 vessels vying for victory in a bid to see which team could release the most billfish. "It was an exciting weekend, and our boat, Delta Dawn, did our best with nine blue marlin releases," shared one of the participants.
Across the two-day tournament, a total of 87 blue marlin were released by competitors, a strong indication of what was to come. However, the record-breaking day for 'Gunpowder' far surpassed these numbers and showcased the exceptional fishing opportunities available in the area.
In the archives of fishing history, the previous record was also set out of Marina Cap Cana when the boat 'Blue Bird' released 23 blue marlin in 2016. This record was broken last December by the vessel 'Trilo Bite', which released 25 marlin. Little did anyone know that just months later, 'Gunpowder' would elevate the standard even further.
"We made some strategic decisions on the water that day. Every moment counted, and we worked as a team, which made all the difference," Mitchell added. The festive display of 27 flags flying from the boat every represented a successful release, symbolizing a new chapter in fishing records in the Atlantic.
Not only did 'Gunpowder' break records, but other boats also enjoyed a successful outing, indicating that Marina Cap Cana continues to be a hotspot for blue marlin fishing. The excitement around fishing in this location continues to attract both seasoned anglers and eager newcomers.
As this new record sends ripples through the fishing community, it emphasizes the thriving marine ecosystem present in the Dominican waters. The remarkable captures and releases from various vessels signify an optimistic outlook for future tournaments and recreational fishing in the area.
As the fishing season progresses, all eyes will be on Marina Cap Cana, where the potential for setting new records remains high.