ORMISTON angler Dale Leenstra believes he landed Queensland’s heaviest swordfish last year, tipping the scales at 141kg.
But because he wasn’t a member of a fishing organisation at the time, the catch wasn’t officially recorded, leaving the current recognised record at 110kg.
This year, Mr Leenstra has joined the Moreton Bay Fishing Club, part of the Queensland Game Fishing Association, with hopes of landing another swordfish to rival his 2025 feat.
“The challenge of fishing is what draws me to the sport,” Mr Leenstra, 28, said.
“I like to outsmart the fish.”
He usually heads out about twice a month on his 5.4m Seahunt, favouring the continental shelf where he targets marlin, swordfish, and Spanish mackerel.
While he prefers fishing alone, he recently enjoyed some trips with his father Mike, who was visiting from South Africa.
“I look for anything big,” he said.
“Your fish finder is your eyes under the water.”
Mr Leenstra moved to Australia from South Africa in 2021, where he and his father regularly broke fishing records.
He said fishing in Australia offers its own challenges.
“Fishing in the two countries is different,” he said.
“There is less variety here and you have to travel further to catch the fish.
“But there are pros and cons for fishing in both countries.
“You always get a thrill when you rise to the challenge.”
Preparation is key, he said, whether it’s targeting record-sized fish or enjoying the thrill of the catch.
“Each species has its different weights and records, he said.
“My goal is always to beat that.
“Eating the fish is really a bonus.”
When he’s not on the water, Mr Leenstra works as a cabinet maker.
“I can’t just fish. I have to work as well,” he said.
“But too much of a good thing is not always such a good thing.”
