Fishing Ascension Island: The First Visitors in 8 Years

After the teams grueling 7 days of travel to reach the remote island of Ascension, they are finally ready to go fishing. Not a single outsider has fished the island in 8 years. For the team this means little to no information about fishing areas around the island. A great deal of reconnaissance is needed to locate where the Blue Marlin are biting.
The first couple of days go better than expected with the team catching a few fish in the 200-350 range. What Captain Steve would call “getting lucky.”
Anthony sets up a visit to the local school. Where the crew will finally get the opportunity to give away the gifts they brought nearly 5000NM for the local kids on the island. Before heading onto land the boys go out for a half day of fishing. Catching the biggest fish of the trip and nearly requiring an emergency trip to the local hospital…
The school visit goes great and the team enjoys the reactions from all the kids. Before heading back to the mothership the group takes a quick trip around the island to film some of the landscape.
The next few days are slower than the first, producing only a handful of bites. The boys weigh in on the fishing experience thus far and expresses some of the things that surprised them the most about the Island.
For more information about the team, fleet, and tour, head over to badcompanyfishingadventures.com or become part of our crew and join the Adventure at badcocrew.com.
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Coming soon for Android. #badcocrew
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CONTENTS OF THIS VIDEO:
00:00-00:35 - Recap
00:35-01:30 - Intro
01:30-02:30 - Team Launches 33L&H and gets ready for fishing
02:30-03:45 - The boys start fishing
03:45-05:06 - Boat hooks first Blue Marlin of the trip
05:06-05:15 - Dorado bite
05:15-06:46 - Team finishes day 1
06:46-07:40 - Start of Day 2
07:40-08:39 - Steve talks about fixing sonar settings
08:39-09:15 - Woody brings Kevin his sunglasses
09:15-09:30 - Mahi Mahi release
09:30-10:10 - Day 3 fishing starts
10:10-12:08 - Anthony talks about Ascension living and school visit
12:08-14:08 - Badco catches biggest blue marlin of the trip
14:08-16:12 - Kevin gets hit near eye by marlin bill
16:12-18:00 - Team catches second marlin of the day
18:00-18:39 - Boys come in early for school visit
18:39-24:23 - School visit on Ascension Island
24:23-25:24 - Day 4 fishing begins
25:24-27:28 - What's it like fishing the 33L&H? How's the fishing at Ascension Island?
27:28-28:20 - Fish jumps on two lures and unhooks itself
28:20-29:44 - What's Anthonys biggest surprise about Ascension and its fishery?
29:44-30:25 - What's the main objective of fishing Ascension Island?
30:25-30:35 - End of Part 1
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FEATURING:
Anthony Hsieh
Captain Steve Lassley
Captain Kevin Bohannon
OB Morton
David Lassley
Videography and edit by David Lassley | IG @david_lassley
DP Tanner Matthews | IG @filmpacific

[@thomasschimmeyer8715]

Thanks so much for taking the time to bring us along like this. Truly appreciate it.

[@badcompanyfishingadventures]

Our pleasure!

[@maxwelleitzen8498]

I would like to say thank you to bad company and Anthony in particular for starting the youtube channel to give us all a window into your passion and the absolute extremes of what is possible with sport fishing. There is no other youtube channel in the world creating content with as much expertise and insane resources as you guys and it is something special to those who know. Its also really refreshing to watch someone do something that they would be doing even if the camera wasnt rolling, all of you guys are just having fun doing the thing you love at the highest level and i' m here for it.

[@TeamBadCo]

Thank you. Our pleasure to share the passion and adventure with the community

[@ahangokyo9487]

Spent a number of months over two years on a heavy lift ship running supplies to the island. Climbing green mountain and the crew fishing off the stern during downtime was always great.

[@braedonhouse4163]

Nothing better than opening youtube to a Bad Company video

[@tarpontail2750]

Love the fact, that bad company is going into this knowing that money can’t buy a grander. She will show herself when you are full of doubt and you least expect it. I’m rooting for you guys. Good luck.

[@mattbellina5485]

I worked at Ascension several times from 2000-2014. There are no natives. There’s Americans at the AF station that track rocket launches on the Eastern Range. Brits at their base and Brit civilians running the transatlantic BBC comms. Then the wonderful folks from St Helena that come on contracts but sometimes end up there for 40+ years. It’s a huge issue they can’t own property. Similar to Diego Garcia. So obviously it was the best fishing I was ever privileged to do in my whole life and I absolutely loved it. Relative to what you guys are doing granders have been caught there and there are photos. One year I was there there were marine biologist studying the entire ecosystem. They said that the marlin there had girth measurements that they had never recorded anywhere else in the world. Their conclusion was that Ascension was more or less a grocery store for the fish that were trans Atlantic migrating. They would fill up on the tuna on their way from Africa to South America and back again. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you taking care of the children there. It is not their fault they are stuck on such a small island while their parents work. I’m glad you guys got to explore it too. it is really interesting. Getting to watch it. Turn green over the years. When I first started working there, the only place with green was green Mountain, but slowly, but surely it’s growing out.

[@FishingAnonymous]

I don’t think people truly appreciate how special it is for us to get brought along for such an incredible experience!

[@dylanlong200]

These videos are never long enough! Love the footage!!

[@badcompanyfishingadventures]

Glad you like them!

[@jakeacker5381]

Worked a boat here in Texas and fish Costa Rica often. The Bad Co operation is top of the class. I hope you boys get your bite one of these days.

[@dallasmore6703]

I worked there in the Base FD from February - September 2022. Went out trolling a few times, the place is infested with sharks. For reasons the boat captain never divulged they insisted on staying in the shark infested near shore waters and never went more than 3-miles out. Consequently we rarely managed to land more than maybe 1 of 10 fish hooked, sharks took the rest. The last time I went out we had 14 strikes, lost 9 lures and managed to land a single tuna "Head". Inshore was awesome for grouper for the first 10 minutes, until the sharks found you.

[@tarpontail2750]

Wow, that fish could’ve easily changed the mood of this adventure so glad it turned out the way it did give that man a beer

[@dennismalcolm6620]

GOOD TO SEE THE DREAMS IN ACTION!!!!...THAT WAS A CLOSE CALL!!!...THOSE GLASSES THAT HE WAS WEARING MADE ALL THE DIFFERENCE 😮😮...I THINK THE BIG LADY IS GOING TO SHOW UP ON THIS TRIP 😀 😄...

[@slickrickygames6243]

How are we not at 5 million Subscribers yet?! Please continue to invest in the videos. Quality is top notch!

[@badcompanyfishingadventures]

Thank you! Slow and steady we’ll get there!

[@alexandergrey5913]

Happy the British gave you a good welcome 👍

[@stonehorn4641]

Some of my favourite videos. While I own a Tuna Charter in NS, I don’t get to do this. I will in the next 3 years though. At least 7 full days of just chasing marlin.

[@bradkidd8264]

Super stuff you guys are the best Well done !

[@anthonyjohnson100]

If you’re going to grab a marlin by the bill you better be heavy and hella strong. I love it. Big island Hawaii 4 life!!♥️

[@sd1r_]

This is the adventure of a lifetime, good luck and stay safe

[@BroadBillHunter]

your a great person for helping those in need! cheers from south florida

[@windycurrent]

Like others here have already said, thank you for bringing us along with you on this trip. How incredible so far! The real amazing part is going through the troubles to give back to the community that has opened up their community to all of you. As a suggestion, what would be really memorable is when you go back the next time, to take some of the kids out and share the experience and thrill of fishing. Great videography👍

[@badcompanyfishingadventures]

Couple of kids had the pleasure of fishing off the back of the mothership!

[@davewylie654]

I just can't help but think the reward for all the work is coming in the form of a true Leviathan!! I don't think a Grander is what you seek. I see a 1400+ coming to play soon. Thanks for taking us along

[@entuydeleila]

good luck guys" get you all that 999lb. girl hahaha!! and by all means be Safe out-there

[@jdmd47]

some of best content on you tube appreciate all your and team do....... its great from little spot in Oklahoma Monkey Island.....

[@nigelsmith5748]

so true you have to put in the time thanks a lot BAD COMPANEY❤❤

[@jeb533]

That was awesome. Fishing is not always catching, most would consider that a great couple days. You are a generous group to do for the kids. Good vid

[@CoreyANurse]

Another fantastic episode... I waited all weekend for this release, finally!!!

[@brandonward2187]

One of the best fishing video's I have seen so far on KZbin. Thanks guys!

[@danievanniekerk6663]

Good luck guys🎣🎣🎣🎣

[@GIUSEPPETUBE05]

Just keep us dreaming, rest does not matter. Thank you

[@rodneypike251]

Wow the work you and your team put in is nothing short of amazing. Love the videos

[@markleto608]

I hope you get your grander in Acension! You defintely have the crew to boat a slob!

[@markleto608]

OB is a BEAST!

[@philipphahn-woernle6582]

Hey guys. Thank you for this amazing footage. I fished AI years back as the second mate on Shy III and it was a once in a lifetime experience. This video takes me back to these days

[@stephendye1659]

Yet again, great video, it’s going to be a hemmingway when you do catch the big one! And you will catch one! And I’m watching.

[@weedhopper]

Thank you for sharing this.ive been a subscriber for a little while now and I just want to say I really enjoy your content and on this episode your kindness and generosity speaks volumes brother you and your crew are truly awesome.selflessness is something that I've always strived for and you guys def showed me that there are still genuine people out here,once again I thank you and look forward to more amazing adventures.cheers guys y'all rock 🤘🫶🤘

[@TeamBadCo]

Thank you.

[@anthonyjohnson100]

25:50 spoiled much? All those vessels are pimpin!

[@eaglerare1273]

Incredible journey men

[@knotwrenchin]

The last statement Anthony makes is the most true.

[@JS-sx3bl]

You all keep getting better every time. Truly a great production of images and edits to explain your BadCo group. Thank you. Also is the Omni sonar on the 33 ? Thought I saw the remote for that…

[@TeamBadCo]

It is a Simrad

[@OceanEthos]

I’ve always dreamed of making it to Ascension and landing a giant yellowfin, so awesome y’all made it there! Great video! Cheers yall!

[@Darkhorse7814]

I watch you Anthony and imagine its me....because thats exactly what i would be doing in your position fishing the world not just local home waters..I have a boat called darkhorse for the last 7 years and have just caught our 100th striped marlin in new zealand based out of the manakau harbor. Now we looking for big fish now blue's blacks and swords day drops and night drifts. Keep up with uploads to youtube and i cant wait to see your 1000 plus pounder or maybe we may see it because you have already got it.....maybe in part 2 or 3???

[@Deepimpactocean]

WHEN you get that grander on that 33’ it will be that much more rewarding !

[@AxxcessDeclined69]

What a journey!! Thanks for sharing!

[@badcompanyfishingadventures]

Thanks for watching!

[@tylerbrandon7961]

So awesome

[@gregorymillar285]

Excellent film thanks for taking us with you. Love it all, the people,seanery travel and of course the fishing. Kevin is the reel deal, tough sob. Be safe and thanks again

[@tj11391]

Amazing

[@ldtenenoff]

Once again Bad co Fishing continues the Humble journey of always grateful setting the world standard for Big Bitchin Badass fishing as they travel looking fer Mr. Bigballs marlin in theyre quest to b there and b ready wen the bite happens!!! So thanks again Bad Co. for sharing ur lifes Quest for worlds biggest Marlin!!!!

[@SuperSlappy25]

Ascension is a dream destination. there used to be a guy there that hand lined massive yellowfin tuna.

[@mattbellina5485]

His name was Nadi. Good friend but he’s passed. He lived on Green Mountain and worked for the Governor.

[@Dm0stFin3sT]

Let’s go Bad co !

[@lindesbasson8785]

Please make your videos a bit longer love the video weldone

[@jonathanskudder2092]

So true

[@SuperSlappy25]

I would have had fish for dinner every day. mahi and tuna

[@hectortoston]

Great video! What sonar do you have in the L&H?

[@TeamBadCo]

Simrad

[@hectortoston]

I looked it online and can’t find it. Do you have a link? I have a boat on the smaller side and this looks like a game changer!

[@badcompanyfishingadventures]

@@hectortostonlook up SY 50 Omni sonar

[@stephangaigher9737]

Have you considered Mozambique? Specifically the Bazaruto archipelago. I just came back from a week in Cape Verde and must say that I think Bazaruto beats it on a good day. There are a lot if black marlin, hwoever from the 500m line east of Baz island there is an undiscovered blue marlin fishery that could possibly be the best in the world. If you are interested let me know for more information.

[@user-vh7cr8tp5f]

What’s your routine with rods, lines, slices hooks etc between days on the hunt?

[@totalnoobfishing1753]

The road to hell is paved with good intentions... he genuinely wanted to get a solid release and hook removal on that fish because he is so passionate about the species.

[@rjalongi9951]

Different kind of rich right there

[@charlieT06]

Binge watching alot of your shows on a shitty rainy day on an island in the middle of nowhere. Thanks badco, keep up the filming. If u want outstanding striped marlin fishing int he south pacific go to the wanganella banks.

[@michaelahlfeldt1490]

Is there any way you guys could help me with the simrad settings and tilt?

[@Tightlines203]

Good think that support boat was able to bring his shades in the morning. If not he might have lost his eye!!

[@trancemusic8805]

cool video! why does one guy catch all the fish?

[@williamavery9185]

If the island has to import all its food, would,it not be a good idea to donate donate a few fresh fish to them ?

[@Chadakins60.]

Is this the island off Brazil

[@spencerharvey743]

Your a savage! Scars are cool as fu k

[@adammcgeorge3538]

Do the locals on the island eat marlin? Would they appreciate it if you harvested a marlin and took it ashore for them to eat?

[@badcompanyfishingadventures]

People on the island probably would have smoked some Marlin if we did harvest one

[@psystealth]

02:04 you need a bigger boat

[@davidleto1223]

Bro must have some $

[@user-ps3rb9yc8x]

Dump the leader !! Hope he's ok!! Born and raised in Hawaii fishing for 40+ years . Based out of Honokohau harbor in kona. Lot's of guys got hurt really bad, and obe guy lost his eyeball !! It's just not a good idea to hang on that long! If it's pretty green and then get that rowdy itscso dangerous!! Hope he learns from that and with lots of years experience you get better at wiring big marlin. Just about everything bad that can happen to guys pulling leader on big donkeys has, and there are to many things that can go wrong with marlin especially green ones!! Aloha!

[@user-ps3rb9yc8x]

Keep it up, and you should get yours shot at a "Grander"!! It will come, and likely more than once. Just put good "mana" (good energy) out there, and yeah man, doing awesome things like what you did for the school children at Ascension Island!! That's great! In Hawaii many of us continue to carry on the ancient Hawaiian traditions and ways of thinking and approaching our fishing! For instance from mauka (mountain) to makai (shore or the sea). I always went up mauka on the volcanoe slopes of mnt. Hualalai and mauna loa, where I would pray, and humbly give tanks for the blessings and ask for safety and guidance to have a bountiful catch!!! I pick ti leaves, and ALWAYS tie several to my boat when I prepare to go out fishing. I typically go on 4-5 day and night long fishing trips, far from Kona to the incredible fishing grounds in the rough trade winds exposed waters off the remote areas off the big island!!!! We , like the ancient Hawaiians will say "we go holoholo" just for fun, and I take an attitude of just sightseeing on my boat, and along the way if I'm blessed with finding good fishing, it's a bonus!!! Ancient Hawaiians were very superstitious and believed everyone in.his family had to be on their best behavior while at home before and while he was out at sea fishing, to malama ka Aina. The grounding of a person with the land and connection with the sea and guidance of your Aumakua to find the fish!!! # 1 rule, NEVER boast or brag before you go fishing that you were going to do well and catch lots of fish. That was sure bring bad luck!!! I often fished alone and though very dangerous, I loved the challenge and ultimate responsibility doing it by myself!! You just keep at it, as it seems to be your passion and at any time you could get your Gramder shot!!! I've caught so many big donkeys (over 500+ pounds) huge blue marlin fishing alone and it's the ultimate achievement to successfully catch those big "Queens" of the ocean by myself!!! It's such a challenge and hard work alone chasing down big donkeys and getting them to the boat!!! I've had probably 3-4 shots at Granders fishing alone! I caught one that was weighed, and another so big I could not get it in the boat with a triple block and tackle! I had to tie it off along the side of my custom built Force 30 and then anchor over night as I was 120 NM from Kona. I knew it would likely get eaten by sharks over night and several huge tiger sharks did just that @ about 3am!! It's just that I always wanted to catch a Grander alone as it was the ultimate achievement!! I didn't want to.usd the meat saw and cut it up because I wanted to bring it home whole. I.was your, and I later began releasing them to swim away because all blue marlin over around 300 lbs and up are females and big ones are mature for breeding!! Famous kona fisherman like George and his son, Marlin Parker, Henry and Butck Chee , the LLanas Brothers the list goes on and on, we're and are good friends of mine who are world renowned for catching huge marlin off Kona!! My cousin, captain Peter Hoogs of FV "Pamela" caught 2 Granders, one blue and the other a black marlin!! I've hooked and fought a few only to lose them after battling them for most of a day, or we'll into the night! Kona is famous for these stories!! Just be patient but always prepared and ready and it will come!! My friend Marlin Parker of kona, has hooked many huge Granders and caught more than one!! He's an incredible fisherman.!!! His boat Marlin Magic is legendary!! Keep following your Passion and it will come, enjoy the incredible places!! I was in kona when Bart Miller FV Black Bart caught the 1600 + lb blue marlin.. Captain Bobby Brown FV No Problem who set out doing what you are leaving kona to look.for great fishing!!! FV Coreen C. 3 I believe caught the famous 1800+lb blue marlin off Oahu!!! Kona has truly been mecca for big blue marlin fishing!!!! Also Cairns Australia off the Great Barrier reef by lizard Island where they have mother ships and sport fishing boats and catch really green Grander Black marlin backing down and wiring them up in 10 - 15 minutes!!! That's been the place to catch Granders!!! Good fishing Aloha from beautiful Hawaii D.L

[@mattbellina5485]

Oh yeah, if you get to visit the graveyard, Captain cooks son is buried there.

[@shaunfogarty5744]

Never go Manno a Fisho with a Marlin.

[@CentseiSam]

Give me a job ima navy vet I can do this

[@surferscollective613]

Cant buy a grander....spends millions

[@davieaka]

Would of loved to see one of are ships anchored. As we supply ascension all the time. Hope you spent some time in the Saints bar as the staff are brilliant. Also hope you went up too two boats.

[@davieaka]

The Ascension is owned by the UK. food shipped from the UK i work on the Brittish ships. Then we go down to the Falklands. and surely them.