Marlin Stabbing

Question
Hi, thanks for your time.  I was wondering if a marlin has ever stabbed a fisherman while in the boat, like jumped into the boat and the fish's nose stabbed him.  I am sorry if this is your area but I have looked all over the internet and I can't find anything about it.  I asked my dad and he thinks he heard something about it before.  I would like to know if this is even possible and/or if it has happened before.  Thank you.

Grace

Answer
Hi Grace;
    I am not aware of Marlin using their bill on humans or boats, but that little trick has been reported done by swordfish.  Marlin tend to use their bill to stun their prey by slashing from side to side.  Thus they are less likely to pierce the hull of a boat or "stab" a fisherman.  Swordfish are more likely to do this.  I do recall a photo in a fishing magazine many years ago that showed where a swordfish bill had pierced the hull of a fishing boat.  The fishermen on board felt it was intentional and reported it as so, though no one was able to question the swordfish and determine if it was intentional or accidental.  Swordfish do have a reputation of being extremely "nasty" and quite dangerous when brought to boatside.
     I too am curious about marlin behaving this way, and if you do find any additional information on this topic, please share it with me.
                       Rich