What Is the Biggest Fish Caught on a Fishing Pole?

Fishing is a popular pastime worldwide, and catching the biggest fish is a dream come true for many anglers. What is the biggest fish that has been caught on a fishing pole? The answer depends on the type of species, the location it was caught, and the type of fishing pole being used.

Saltwater Fishing

In terms of saltwater species, many of the world records for fish caught with a fishing pole involve marlin. The current International Game Fish Association (IGFA) record for a blue marlin is 1,376 pounds and was caught off Kona, Hawaii in May 2009 by angler Al McReynolds. Other saltwater species that have been caught on fishing poles include tarpon, wahoo, and sailfish.

Freshwater Fishing

When it comes to freshwater species, most of the world record catches involve catfish. The current IGFA record for blue catfish is an impressive 143 pounds and was also caught in Kona Hawaii in May 2009 by angler Michael Reneau. Other freshwater species that have been recorded as being caught on a fishing pole include bass and sturgeon.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is another popular form of angling and there are several large fish species that have been reeled in through the ice. The current IGFA record for lake trout is an impressive 46 pounds 2 ounces and was caught in Alaska in March 2019 by angler Landon Mayer. Additionally, other large ice species include northern pike, walleye, and muskie.

Conclusion: There have been several large fish catches from all three types of angling – saltwater, freshwater and ice fishing – but it ultimately depends on the type of species being fished for as to what constitutes as “the biggest” catch with a fishing pole. Saltwater records tend to involve marlin while freshwater records tend to involve catfish and ice records often involve lake trout or northern pike. Regardless of which type of fish you are after, it’s always fun to see what you can reel in!

Photo of author

Lindsay Collins