Unfortunately, I wasn't on board for this trip. The fish was caught on 80# leader, and they worried about losing the fish at the gaff due to a chaffed leader after such a long fight. A 142lb tuna will tug a bit when you wrap into the leader and pull her to the gaff.
They were thinking it was a possible port record (missed it by 12#) and didn't want to take any chances. Captain made a good call in my book.
Still waiting for them to post the photos.