The crew of the ROV vessel HOS Innovator and the Saipem Innovator 9 ROV recently encountered and caught a rare oarfish at the surface near their boat - over 100 miles off the coast south of New Orleans.

The fish measured at over seven feet in length, but weighed only about six pounds, and has been preserved for donation to a research organization or aquarium for study. Crew member Dick Elliott took a few photographs of the experience - continue reading to view them…