April 10, 2025: An 884-pound Atlantic bluefin tuna has potentially set the Texas state record, landed after a grueling five-hour battle aboard Catillac, an Invincible 46′ Catamaran, 160+ miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico.
What makes this catch remarkable is not just its size, but the vessel it was landed from: an outboard-powered center console. This wasn’t a planned tuna trip, it began as a shorter blue marlin run that evolved into a 36-hour high seas expedition.
Stand-Up Gear, Rough Waters, and a Record Catch
Angler David Esslinger fought the behemoth using stand-up gear paired with a Release Marine “Battle Saddle.” Providing key support were Captain Carson Deer and crew members TC Swetman, Brad Hildebrandt, Jeff Young, and Colby Denbow.
“This trip would not have been possible without our Invincible 46′ Cat,” said Captain Deer. “With 1,000 gallons of fuel capacity and storage for 1,500 pounds of ice, we can safely venture where most center consoles can’t, even in rough conditions.”
Built for the Distance, Designed for the Win
This record-breaking catch highlights the evolution of offshore fishing platforms. Vessels like the Invincible 46’ Catamaran are expanding the boundaries of what’s possible for bluewater anglers.
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