CATCHING a 1.5m, 40kg wahoo was the birthday present of a lifetime for 13-year-old Xavier Caputa.
Celebrating his birthday the best way he knew how, the Carmel College student spent the day offshore fishing with two close friends and his father, Rick Caputa, off North Stradbroke Island.
The group had already brought in an impressive haul when they landed the prized catch.
“It was the experience of a lifetime. It was the best present ever and a birthday to remember,” Mr Caputa said.
“I have an immense sense of pride that I can give him this experience.”
Mr Caputa said wahoo were a rare catch in the area, and he was especially proud the boys were able to gaff and haul the fish aboard themselves.
“There was easily 25 kilograms of meat from the fish,” he said.
“Everyone took some home – it certainly feeds a lot of families.
“The meat is like a thick fillet chunk. It is delicious.”
The birthday outing also netted a 60cm pearl perch and several bonito, which Mr Caputa said were impressive catches on their own.
“The boys are addicted to fishing,” he said. “They do it all holidays – off the banks at Raby Bay or in the canals. They just love it.”
Xavier’s passion runs deep – often heading out with his rod as soon as he gets home from school or sport.
“It’s such a healthy thing to do, and it’s rare they come home empty-handed,” Mr Caputa said.
The wahoo catch has since sparked plenty of attention on social media, with friends and fellow anglers congratulating the young fisherman.
“It was better than getting a birthday cake,” Mr Caputa said.
And as for next year?
Xavier has his sights set on something even bigger – though topping the wahoo might be a challenge.
