Anglers Net Rare 125-Pound Opah Off Newport Coast
NEWPORT BEACH (CBSLA.com) — It could be the catch of a lifetime for a pair of Orange County anglers: a rare 125-pound opah.
Jeff Patrick and Thor Brisbin netted the unusual catch on May 1 during a half-day deep-sea fishing trip from Davey's Locker Sportfishing in Newport Beach.
The fish was caught in about 100 feet of water following what Brisbin described as a "30-minute battle" just about 1,000 yards from the shore.
Also known as moonfish, opah - which are primarily caught in deeper waters offshore and usually later in the summer months - are typically silver and bright rose red in color with a flat circular body, large eyes and usually weigh in around 100 pounds and 3 feet long.
Brisbin said it was a very special day aboard the Western Pride.
"In over 50 years, we have never caught a (sic) opah on a half day fishing trip," he said in a statement. "Quite a catch."
The catch marked the first exotic catch of the year for the Westin Pride, according to the Davey's Locker website.