LEGENDARY game fishing skipper Billy Billson passed away earlier this week.
Billson was skipper of well-known game fishing boat Viking and later the Viking II, and was recognised as one of Australia’s top marlin fishers.
Billson was best known for chasing Cairns giant black marlin. On his watch, 11 black marlin weighing more than 1000lb were captured, with two of those tipping the scales at 1200lb.
Cairns Professional Game Fishing Association president Tim Dean said on Facebook: “It is with sadness I report that our colleague, member and friend Captain Billy Billson passed away this afternoon with his beloved family by his side.
“Our thoughts are with Holly, Emmy Rose and Kye at this time. He loved you all so much and was so proud.
“I will update at a later date as details are worked through.”