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Thank you for attending: Reeling in Research


Thank you for joining us for this insightful conversation exploring the intersection of science, conservation and one of the world’s premier sport fishing tournaments. We’re grateful you took the time to learn more about NC State’s Center for Marine Sciences and Technology, its longstanding partnership with the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, and the research helping us better understand and protect our marine ecosystems.


Below you’ll find the event recording, key takeaways, and ways to stay connected as we continue advancing coastal research, student learning and conservation through the Wolfpack community.

Rewatch the webinar

Takeaways from the Webinar

  • NC State’s coastal campus is driving real-world marine solutions
    CMAST brings together research, teaching and extension to address coastal resilience, seafood sustainability, fisheries science, ocean health and hands-on student learning.
  • The Big Rock partnership gives researchers rare access to valuable marine data
    Because blue marlin and other offshore species are rarely brought to the dock, tournament samples help NC State researchers study diet, age, health, mercury levels and long-term ecosystem trends.
  • Conservation is central to modern sport fishing
    The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament emphasizes release practices, higher minimum size requirements and responsible fishing methods that help protect billfish populations.
  • Long-term data helps researchers see changes over time
    NC State’s 20-plus-year relationship with Big Rock allows researchers to track patterns in dolphin fish diets, large-fish size trends and the effects of new fishing technology like omnidirectional sonar.
  • Alumni and friends can help advance this work
    Support for CMAST can expand student research experiences, strengthen marine science infrastructure and help NC State continue translating coastal research into practical solutions for North Carolina and beyond.

We value your feedback

Support the Future of Coastal Research

Your support helps NC State’s Center for Marine Sciences and Technology provide hands-on student learning, advance marine and coastal research, and develop practical solutions that protect North Carolina’s fisheries, seafood industry and coastal communities.


Make a gift today to help CMAST continue turning Wolfpack research into real-world impact.