The sport of fishing for marlin can be called by several names or descriptions: billfishing, big game fishing, chasing marlin, deep see fishing and others. We like to think of it as the ultimate fishing. Regardless of what ocean you target marlin or species they are all considered apex predators that feed on squid, tuna, sardines, anchovies, shrimp and other baitfish and mollusk.
Modern marlin fishing started roughly 100 years ago with the invention of the first thread lines, rods and reels. The tackle has become much lighter and efficient the last 45 years. New thinner and stronger braids, composite monofilaments and rod blanks made of stronger and lighter materials are changing the sport. Today you can target marlin with reels and rods that are 1/5 the weight they were just 20 years ago.
In the Pacific anglers target mainly sailfish, striped marlin, blue marlin, black marlin and swordfish. In the Atlantic sailfish, white marlin, blue marlin and swordfish are the main billfish targets. There are spearfish in both ocean but they are not as frequent as the other billfish mentioned.
