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Fishing is a pursuit cherished by many, but for South African angler Ben Kruger, a singular fish had become the stuff of legend—a dream nurtured for years, waiting for the perfect moment when skill, perseverance, and a touch of fortune would align.
This year, aboard the Rough Rider 2000 in Ballantyne’s Cove, Nova Scotia, Kruger joined Capt. Michael Tait and his dedicated crew — wireman Steve Clapperton and son and crewman Garett Tait — on a quest for that dream.
Their adventure began with a thrilling catch on the very first day: releasing a 600-pound behemoth and setting an exhilarating tone for the days to come. However, as the second, third and fourth days unfolded, hope mingled with frustration; three promising hookups slipped through Kruger’s fingers.
By the fifth and final day, a sense of despair loomed. Surrounded by fish that stubbornly refused to take the bait, Kruger felt as though the dream was slipping away. Yet Capt. Tait and his crew remained relentless, their determination unwavering.
Then, just after 3 p.m., the Shimano Tiagra 130 screamed to life as the line tore off the reel, reigniting Kruger’s hopes. Little did he know the grandeur of the creature that awaited him. For two grueling hours, he wrestled with the bluefin before finally besting the massive tuna. Before the trip started, Kruger had pre-arranged with Capt. Tait to use one of his tags to harvest a fish. With it being his last day of the charter, Kruger and Capt. Tait made the required call before leaving port that they intended to “hook and retain” the first fish they caught, regardless of size. It was quite the gamble, but it was one that paid off.
As the Rough Rider 2000 began the slow chug back to Ballantyne’s Cove, everyone knew they had a quality fish. But Kruger and the crew were all stunned when the certified scale stopped at 1,075 pounds and the spectators gathered at the marina shouted their cheers.
“This is the stuff of which prayers and dreams are made,” said Kruger. “A special thanks to my loyal fishing companion, Richard Green, for making this incredible journey with me. And to Capt. Tait and the Rough Rider 2000 crew, thank you – this is a testament to your teamwork, perseverance, and the thrilling unpredictability of the sea. Here’s to chasing dreams and catching giants!”
Read Next: Giant Bluefin Tuna Fishin in Nova Scotia.
Prior to 2020, it was prohibited for any non-Canadians to participate in the harvest of a bluefin tuna. Although the quota of tags allocated each year remains tightly regulated by the government, and rightfully so, international visitors are now legally permitted to participate in the harvest of a bluefin tuna in Canadian waters, therefore allowing recreational anglers such as Kruger to pursue their dreams of targeting these ultimate game fish in a sustainable manner.
