Angler Lands Record-Setting 832.6-Pound Virginia Bluefin Tuna

High Hopes Crew Catches Massive Fish Using PENN Gear

Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:07am

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A new Virginia saltwater record has been set after angler Mike Rogerson landed an 832.6-pound Atlantic bluefin tuna aboard the High Hopes boat, captained by PENN Fleet Captain David Wright. The epic 90-minute battle in challenging conditions off the coast of Virginia Beach pushed both the angler and the PENN fishing gear to the limit before the massive tuna was successfully brought to the boat.

Why it matters

This record-breaking catch highlights the thrill and challenge of big-game fishing, as well as the importance of reliable gear when taking on such massive fish. PENN's performance and durability were critical factors in landing this historic catch.

The details

Rogerson was fishing with Captain Wright when they hooked the massive 832.6-pound bluefin tuna in shallow water off the Virginia coast. The epic 90-minute battle pushed both the angler and the PENN International VISW 2-Speed 80 Wide conventional reel, spooled with Berkley ProSpec Chrome Premium Hollow Braid backing and 100-lb Ocean Blue Berkley ProSpec Chrome line, to the limit before the fish was successfully landed. Captain Wright credited his longtime mate, Andrew Flory, for helping make the historic catch possible.

  • On January 10, 2026, Rogerson and Captain Wright caught the record-breaking 832.6-pound bluefin tuna.

The players

Mike Rogerson

The angler who landed the record-setting 832.6-pound Atlantic bluefin tuna.

David Wright

The PENN Fleet Captain who captained the High Hopes boat during the record-breaking catch.

Andrew Flory

The longtime mate who assisted Captain Wright in landing the massive tuna.

PENN

The fishing gear brand whose equipment, including the PENN International VISW 2-Speed 80 Wide conventional reel, was used to land the record-breaking catch.

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What they’re saying

“I never expected to catch a fish of this caliber in my lifetime. Everything went perfectly to be able to land the fish and get it certified on a scale back at the dock. My PENN gear performed flawlessly throughout the fight.”

— David Wright, PENN Fleet Captain

“We hooked the fish in such shallow water that it was a stalemate for most of the battle. My mate, Andrew Flory, was the unsung hero—he has been with me for over 10 years and did an incredible job landing the fish.”

— David Wright, PENN Fleet Captain

What’s next

The record-class bluefin tuna catch is a reminder of the thrill of big-game fishing and the importance of reliable gear. PENN continues to recognize anglers who push the limits of sport fishing.

The takeaway

This historic catch showcases the performance and durability of PENN fishing gear, as well as the skill and teamwork required to land a record-breaking 832.6-pound bluefin tuna in challenging offshore conditions. It is a testament to the excitement and challenges of big-game fishing.