Alf Dean

Alf Dean (1924 – 2013) was an Australian big-game fisherman, known particularly for his success in catching marlin, including multiple world records. He pioneered techniques in marlin fishing and was a prominent figure in the sportfishing community. Dean operated primarily from Bermagui, New South Wales, Australia, a location renowned for its marlin fishing grounds. He is credited with popularizing the "switch baiting" method of marlin fishing, where a teaser lure is used to attract the fish close to the boat before presenting a baited hook. Dean held numerous International Game Fish Association (IGFA) world records throughout his career, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest marlin fishermen of all time. His knowledge and passion for the sport greatly influenced subsequent generations of anglers.