Florida: State Record Fish Catches

Florida, known as the "Sunshine State," is not only a paradise for tourists and beach lovers. It is also one of the best places in the world for fishing. Its varied climate, numerous rivers, lakes, and coastline offer an incomparable variety of fish. The state's coast faces the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Pretty fascinating, isn't it?

But what defines a successful catch in Florida? For many, it's a record-breaking fish catch! National fishing records are the ultimate goal for anglers. Setting a state record is every angler's dream.

In this guide, you'll discover which fish species dominate Florida's records. You will discover the record catches, and we will take you through the most exciting moments in Florida's fishing history. Let's explore the world of record fishing in Florida together!

Largest Fish Caught in Florida by Species

Whether fishing in freshwater or saltwater, Florida offers the opportunity to catch rockfish. The fishing records set here by avid anglers attest to the size and diversity of Florida's fish life.

We have to add that Florida has caught some of the most impressive specimens ever. We will not keep you in suspense any longer. Let's start with the details of the largest fish in Florida by species.

Tarpon

We start our adventure with Tarpon. This species is a true legend in Florida and it is known for its acrobatic jumps.

• Appearance: Tarpons are large fish with metallic silvery scales and aerodynamic bodies. They are between 4 and 8 feet and weigh between 60 and 240 pounds.

• Habitat: Tarpons are most abundant in coastal waters. They inhabit the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean region. Shallow waters up to 50 feet are Tarpon's favorite habitat.

It gives the fishermen an exciting fight because it is combative. There is no doubt it represents a real challenge for anglers.

State Record

The largest Tarpon ever caught in Florida was 243 pounds, caught by Gus Bell in Key West in 1975. Although impressive, this catch is not a world record.

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1975

• Catch: 243 pounds 

• Angler: Gus Bell

And you are curious to know the world record? In the next section, see the size of the largest Tarpon ever caught.

World Record

The world record for the largest Tarpon ever caught is a 286-pound, 9-ounce specimen caught by angler Max Domek in 2003 on the coast of Guinea-Bissau, West Africa.

• World Record: Still active (Guinea-Bissau, West Africa)

• Year: 2003

• Catch: 286-pound, 9-ounce

• Angler: Max Domecq

This record resembles the size of a Tarpon, and large specimens of this species are often caught. A new record is possible in the near future.

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass are one of the most popular freshwater fish in Florida. They are known for their impressive size, which thrills poachers. This species is found in many of the state's lakes and rivers.

• Appearance: This fish has a greenish color. It has a dark stripe running down each side. They can grow up to 20 inches or more.

• Habitat: It lives in freshwater environments. Popular fishing spots include Lake Okeechobee and the St. Johns River.

This fish is the symbol of freshwater fishing in Florida. Its size and strength make it a fascinating species to research. Below, we examine state and world records for Largemouth Bass fishing.

State Record

The Florida state record for Largemouth Bass was set in 1986. Fisherman George Perry caught this giant fish. It weighed as much as 17.27 pounds.

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1986

• Catch: 17.27 pounds

• Angler: George Perry

This record has stood the test of time for decades. My fishermen tried to knock it down, but the record persists. We'll just see how long.

World Record

The world record for Largemouth Bass was set in 2006 in California and represents the largest catch of this species so far. Fisherman Manabu Kurita caught it in an exciting fight. This impressive specimen weighed 22 pounds, 4 ounces.

• World Record: (California, USA)

• Year: 2006

• Catch: 22 pounds, 4 ounces

• Angler: Manabu Kurita

This catch is considered one of the most incredible feats in Bass fishing history. It also shows this species' incredible size and attractiveness to anglers. It highlights the enormous growth potential of Largemouth Bass and inspires countless fishing enthusiasts worldwide.

Speckled Trout

We have come to another extremely popular fish for fishing. It's Speckled Trout. Several huge specimens of this species have been caught in Florida waters.

• Appearance: Speckled Trout is a fish that can be recognized by its gray-green color. It has characteristic black dots on the sides. This fish can grow up to 24-30 inches in length. Sometimes, it can be more prominent. It has a long, elongated body with a large mouth. This allows it to catch smaller fish and crustaceans easily.

• Habitat: Speckled Trout is a saltfish that lives in shallow water along the Atlantic Ocean's coast. In Florida, popular fishing spots for this species are in river areas like Fort Pierce.

This fish is a desirable target for anglers primarily because it is very combative, providing an exciting fight.

State Record

Craig Carson set the state record for Spotted Trout in Florida on May 11, 1995. He caught a huge 17,7 pounds. This happened on his fishing trip in Fort Pierce.

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1995

• Catch: 17 pounds, 7 ounces

• Angler: Craig Carson

This record catch became legendary. Craig didn't even know he had set a new Florida/World Record until he had a chance to measure it.

World Record

Craig's feat is even more fascinating because it is also a world record. And the story of this catch is interesting. Craig only caught one catch in four days of fishing. And that one was just a record Speckled Trout. 

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)

• Year: 1995

• Catch: 17 pounds, 7 ounces

• Angler: Craig Carson

When he caught his fish, this fisherman didn't realize how much his catch would change the fishing world. Before eating it, he decided to weigh it at the fish store. Although the fish was eaten, enough witnesses confirmed his record. 

Bass (Butterfly Peacock)

Although similar to other North American Bass, this fish is unrelated to them. It belongs to the cichlid family and originates from the Orinoco River basin. 

• Appearance: There are dark, vertical stripes along the body. They stretch from the back to the stomach. It has a characteristic black spot in the shape of an eye on the tail fin. An orange or gold color may surround the place. This pattern resembles a butterfly. That's why it's called a "Butterfly." It has an elongated head with a large mouth. The fins are often orange or reddish. The Butterfly Peacock Bass can reach about 18-27 inches. Their average weight is 4-7 pounds. Trophy specimens are often larger.

• Habitat: The Butterfly Peacock Bass is a freshwater fish that thrives in warm, tropical waters. In Florida, it swims in the canals and lakes of South Florida. It is especially abundant in the areas around Miami and Fort Lauderdale. It prefers shallow zones.

Peacock Bass has become a favorite "import" of Florida anglers. They are very popular because of their unusual color. In addition, they are strong and provide anglers with an exciting fight.

State Record

In 2021, fisherman Felipe Prieto set a national record in the southern part of the state with his catch of 9 pounds. His catch attracted a lot of attention. Fishing in a small pond, Felipe felt a strong pull on the bait. Being experienced, he knew it was a big fish. The fight didn't last long, but Felipe described it as exciting.

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 2021

• Catch: 9 pounds

• Angler: Felipe Prieto

This is a Florida record, not a world record. In the next part, we will represent the world record.

World Record

Venezuela holds the world record for catching Peacock Bass, with a 12-pound specimen caught there in 1993. This is currently the largest official catch of this species.

• World Record: Still active (Venezuela, South America)

• Year: 1993

• Catch: 13 pounds

• Angler: Larry Larsen

If you thought Florida's record was impressive, how about this? The size and strength of this catch are why the Peacock Bass holds a legendary status among anglers.

Crappie (Black)

Black Crappie is one of Florida's most popular freshwater fish behind Bass.

• Appearance: Black Carp have a robust, elongated body that is dark in color. The fins are usually dark, with a slightly lighter shade on the edges and a pointed head. The Carp has a wide mouth for crushing prey like mollusks and snails. Depending on their habitat and diet, Black Carp can grow to an impressive length of 48-60 inches and weigh as much as 30-80 pounds.

• Habitat: Black Carp thrive in warm river systems and large lakes. It originates from the Yangtze River basin in China. This species prefers deep water with slow currents and are often found in areas rich in mollusks. whichare its primary food source. It thrives best in habitats with stable temperatures.

It is present in lakes and ponds throughout Florida. The best places to catch Crappies today are Seminole, Toho, and Kissimmee.

State Record

Ben Curry Sr. holds the current state record for Florida Crappie. He caught a specimen weighing almost 4 pounds in Lake Talquin in the early 1990s. This significant catch took place at the end of January.

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1990

• Catch: 4 pounds

• Angler: Ben Curry

Although more than thirty years have passed since this catch, the record still stands, and Lake Talquin continues to attract avid anglers who seek notable fish trophies and want to add their names to the fishing history books.

World Record 

The world record was surpassed by Lionel Ferguson from Tennessee. In 2018, Lionel caught a specimen weighing 6 pounds. 

• World Record: Still active (Tennesse, USA)

• Year: 2018

• Catch: 6 pounds

• Angler: Lionel Ferguson

It happened at Richeyson Pond, a private pond. It should be noted that Black Crappie is considered one of the tastiest freshwater fish.

Grouper (Goliath)

The Goliath Grouper is known as one of the most prominent representatives of the Grouper family. This giant can reach a weight of over 500 pounds. It is one of the largest fish you can catch in Florida waters. 

• Appearance: The Goliath Grouper has a massive and robust body. It has a broad head and a large mouth, and its skin is dotted with dark spots, which helps it blend in with its surroundings. Body color varies from olive green to brown, with a light belly.

• Habitat: Goliath Groupers live mainly in the shallow tropical waters of the western Atlantic. Many swim along the coasts of Florida, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico, usually near coral reefs and shipwrecks. This species prefers depths of 16 to 164 feet.

Fighting these fish is challenging, especially in deeper waters. However, they also swim in the coastal areas of Florida. Southwest Florida is the best destination for hunting Goliath Grouper.

State Record

Angler Lynn Joyner caught the enormous Goliath Grouper ever in Florida in 1961, weighing an incredible 680 pounds. 

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1961

• Catch: 680 pounds

• Angler: Lynn Joyner

According to stories, the battle with the fish lasted more than an hour. This result is also a world record!

World Record

As we said in the previous part, the Florida record is also a world record. Hunting this giant is a unique experience. You must choose the right rod and overall to have good equipment. The presence of an experienced captain is also essential. 

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)

• Year: 1961

• Catch: 680 pounds

• Angler: Lynn Joyner

Many fishing charter companies throughout Florida offer tours specializing in fishing for Goliath Grouper. This is an opportunity to face one of the sea's most significant challenges.

Marlin (Blue)

Blue Marlin is an impressive fish to catch in Florida waters. It is known for its enormous size, swiftness, strength, and agility. It can reach weights of over 1,000 pounds and provide spectacular resistance during combat. That's why many anglers consider it a top sports opponent.

• Appearance: Blue Marlin has an elegant and hydrodynamic body. It has a long and sharp sword-like "beak." Its color ranges from metallic blue to silvery on the belly. It has a large, curved dorsal fin. 

• Habitat: Blue Marlins live in warm, tropical, and subtropical ocean waters worldwide, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They prefer the open ocean and often move at depths of up to 650 feet. They swim near thermal currents and areas rich in plankton, where they hunt for prey such as Tuna, Mackerel, and squid. Blue Marlins are migratory species that follow seasonal temperature and food availability changes.

In Florida, the Blue Marlin season runs from spring to fall. This migratory species follows seasonal changes in temperature and food availability.

State Record

The Florida state record for Blue Marlin was set in 2001 near Panama City. Angler Conrad Hawkins caught a magnificent Marlin weighing just over 1000 pounds. The fish was 130 inches long and had a girth of 80 inches. 

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 2001

• Catch: 1000 pounds

• Angler: Conrad Hawkins

As impressive as this may seem, it is not a world record. The following section, which discusses Blue Marlin fishing, describes the world record in more detail.

World Record

The world record for Atlantic blue marlin belongs to Paolo Amorim from Brazil. In 1992, Amorim caught a 1,400-pound Marlin in Vitoria.

• World Record: Still active (Vitoria, Brazil)

• Year: 1992

• Catch: 1,400 pounds

• Angler: Paolo Amorim

Even after more than thirty years, this record remains unbeaten and strong. That speaks volumes about this feat, highlighting the importance of the skill and dedication required to land such an extraordinary catch.

Redfish

Redfish fishing is among the most exciting experiences Florida has to offer. These fish are known for their elegant appearance and impressive power. 

• Appearance: Redfish has an elongated body of reddish or copper color. Their most distinctive mark is a large black spot near the tail. Adult Redfish can grow up to 60 inches in length. However, the average size of the catch is between 18 and 27 inches, and a weight of 4 to 8 pounds.

• Habitat: These fish are not hard to find in Florida. They inhabit all coastal waters. Indian River is just one of the top locations for hunting this species. Pensacola Beach and Apalachicola Bay are also excellent choices.

They have spotted tails, which is their characteristic but are also priced because of their fantastic taste. 

State Record

The current state record for Redfish in Florida was set in 1996 in the Indian River Lagoon. George Hogan Jr. caught a 50-pound fish that day. 

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1996

• Catch: 50 pounds

• Angler: George Hogan Jr.

The fight lasted about 20 minutes. That speaks volumes for what a fighter this type of fish is.

World Record

The largest Redfish in the world was almost twice the weight of the Florida record. Impressive, isn't it? David Deuel holds the world record. In 1984, he caught a fish weighing 95 pounds in North Carolina. 

• World Record: Still active (North Carolina, USA)

• Year: 1984

• Catch: 95 pounds

• Angler: George Hogan Jr.

Redfish fishing in Florida is always the right choice. With so many options and locations, whether you're an experienced angler or just starting your journey, don't miss the chance to experience the thrill of the chase!

Sheepshead 

Sheepsheads are known for their shell-based diet, which makes them especially valued among anglers. Their meat is delicious and delicate. 

• Appearance: Sheepshead is a fish that stands out for its intriguing appearance. It has a body covered with characteristic black and white stripes. 

• Habitat: Sheepshead mostly swims in coastal areas, preferring habitats near bridges and docks. In Florida waters, great places to catch these fish are Jacksonville and the Keys. The conditions here are ideal for exciting fishing.

The main characteristic of the fish is their teeth, as they resemble human teeth.

State Record 

The state record for Sheepshead in Florida dates back to 1981. Eugene Lechler caught a fish weighing almost 16 pounds off Homosassa. Although anglers catch scores of Sheepshead each year, this catch remains unsurpassed. 

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1981

• Catch: 16 pounds

• Angler: Eugene Lechler

Sheepshead are a real delicacy. Their shellfish diet contributes to the quality of their meat, making them an ideal choice for gourmets.

World Record 

The IGFA world record for Sheepshead was set in 1982. It happened in St. Johns Bayou, Louisiana, when Wayne Desselle caught a giant Sheepshead weighing 20 pounds. 

• World Record: Still active (Louisiana, USA)

• Year: 1982

• Catch: 20 pounds

• Angler: Wayne Desselle

This catch remains unattainable in sport fishing. Of course, a new one may be set soon.

Mangrove Snapper

Mangrove Snapper is one of the most popular fish species in Florida's coastal waters. These fish are fun to fish for. The average weight of Mangrove Snapper ranges between 1 and 2 pounds. 

• Appearance: Mangrove Snapper has a spindly body. It is gray-brown with slight reddish shades. Its flanks often have dark stripes or patterns. This fish has sharp teeth and a strong jaw. Her eyes are large, which helps in hunting.

• Habitat: Mangrove Snapper inhabits tropical and subtropical waters and the east coast of the USA and the Caribbean. This fish prefers areas with lots of cover.

They got their name from the mangroves, the lush coastal vegetation where they often live. In Florida, you can find them hidden in canals and estuaries. Larger specimens are located further from the coast. In open water, they can reach a significantly larger size. They are also a real delicacy.

State Record

The Florida state record for Mangrove Snapper was set in 1992. Then, Steve Maddox caught a 17-pound Snapper near Port Canaveral.

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1992

• Catch: 17 pounds

• Angler: Steve Maddox

The larger specimens usually swim further from the coast. However, there are some around coral reefs and sunken wrecks. In open water, they can reach a significantly larger size. 

World Record

The world record is imposing. Angler Tim Champagne caught a fish of 19 pounds and over 30 inches.

• World Record: Still active (Louisiana, USA)

• Year: 2015

• Catch: 19 pounds

• Angler: Tim Champagne

Although several other outstanding catches came close to this one, this result remains a world record.

Red Snapper 

Red Snapper is one of the most sought-after fish in Florida. It is known for its rich, mild taste, making this fish specialty a true culinary delight. 

• Appearance: The Red Snapper has an elongated, streamlined body. It also has a characteristic bright red color that covers the entire body. Their eyes are sparkling red and the lower jaw is slightly protruding.

• Habitat: Red Snapper lives in the warm waters of the western Atlantic. They are especially abundant in the Gulf of Mexico and along the southeastern coast of the United States of America. It swims near shipwrecks and reefs and feeds on crabs, shrimps, and smaller fish. They often hunt in flocks.

 Red Snapper is always delicious, whether baked, fried, or prepared in various ways.

State Record

Lane Nichols III holds the record for the most prominent Red Snapper caught in Florida. In 1985, while offshore fishing off Destin, he caught an incredible 47-pound Red Snapper. 

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 1985

• Catch: 47 pounds

• Angler: Lane Nichols III

This record catch still holds the title of state record. It is also not far from the world record, which speaks volumes about its size.

World Record

The largest Red Snapper ever caught was in 1996. Capt. Henry "Doc" Kennedy caught a gigantic 50-pound, 4-ounce Red Snapper in the Gulf of Mexico. More precisely, in the state of Louisiana. (Gulf of Mexico exits five countries)

• World Record: Still active (Louisiana, USA)

• Year: 1996

• Catch: 50 pounds, 4 ounce

• Angler: Henry "Doc" Kennedy

Amazingly, Kennedy fished with two lines and simultaneously had two huge Red Snapper on the hook. According to legend, the larger of them escaped. Kennedy ended up taking a 50-pound Red Snapper.

Snook

Snook is another species that is very popular in Florida. It is known for her aggressive behavior and powerful punches. This fish is also known for her acrobatic jumps. And while fishing for Snook is an exciting experience, it is also a delicacy for all lovers of a good meal.

• Appearance: Snook has an elongated, spindly body with a distinctive dark line running along the side. Its color varies from silvery to light olive-green. It has a wide mouth with a lower jaw slightly exceeding the upper one.

• Habitat: Snook inhabit coastal areas, usually lagoons and river mouths. They swim in fresh, brackish, and salt water, preferring warm water. They feed on small fish and crustaceans.

In Florida, Snook is usually found in the same waters as Redfish. Fort Pierce and Sebastian Inlet are among the most popular fishing spots in the state.

State Record

The state record for Snook in Florida was set in late August 2015. Then Heather Lynn Connors caught a huge 46-pound Snook. It happened in the waters near Sebastian Inlet. 

• Florida Record: Still active

• Year: 2015

• Catch: 46 pounds

• Angler: Heather Lynn Connors

Although this record still stands, anglers continue to catch huge Snook every year in the same waters.

World Record

Globally, Snook is one of the most sought-after fishing fish. The world record catch for this species is 54 pounds. 

• World Record: Still active (Parismina, Costa Rica)

• Year: 1978

• Catch: 54 pounds

• Angler: Gilbert Ponzi

This historic catch occurred in Costa Rica, near Parismin, an iconic location for big-game fishing. Gilbert Ponzi, the record holder, has maintained this title for decades, inspiring anglers worldwide to pursue their dream of catching a Snook of such impressive size.

Final Thoughts

Every angler knows that Florida is one of the most popular fishing destinations in the world. Its waters are rich in various types of fish. From fishing in lakes full of Bass to pristine beaches and ocean depths that hide numerous fish, Florida has everything you need for perfect catch.

A record trophy can appear in Florida even in the least expected place. These fish are outside all standard limits regarding size, strength, or appearance. 

Will you be the one to break the new record? Have you fished in Florida yet? What was your biggest catch? We look forward to hearing your answers in the comments!

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are not of specific record catches or events. They are included for illustrative purposes to represent the fish species discussed. Our team has manually checked all data. We strive to keep all information current; some details may occasionally become outdated.