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10 minutes readGeorgia is the right destination for fishing enthusiasts. This state offers a variety of fishing adventures. Here, every cast can bring a serious catch. The warm southern welcome and mild climate make the fishing experience even more enjoyable.
The local records for catching fish speak of the exceptional potential of these locations. Every body of water in Georgia has stories of legendary catches that inspire anglers worldwide.
This guide explores the most famous fishing records in Georgia. It brings you the details of the impressive catches and the people behind them. These stories will motivate you to look for your record catch in this state. Get ready to explore the best fishing locations in Georgia!
Fishing in Georgia offers a diverse range of challenges. In the Atlantic currents of Georgia, fish like Black Drum and King Mackerel are the beginning of an exciting story. For experienced anglers, Redfish and Tarpon bring unforgettable fighting moments. Cobia and Red Snapper from the deep reefs provide a real fishing adventure.
For freshwater anglers, Georgia's lakes offer the opportunity to catch Walleye. Those looking to break records can try catching massive Striped Bass. Georgia offers endless possibilities for unforgettable fishing. Discover details of record catches across the state. Be inspired by the stories behind these incredible achievements.
Fishing in Georgia attracts many enthusiasts. Among the top trophies is the Black Drum. This strong fish is known for its fighting spirit and is ideal prey for passionate anglers. Cumberland Sound, at the mouth of the St. Marys, is one of the most famous locations where this species can be found. Its rocky barriers provide perfect conditions for Black Drum fishing.
The state record for this fish is imposing. Check the next section. You will be impressed with the records that we will show you.
The most impressive moment in the history of Black Drum fishing happened on April 3, 2010. John Henry Thomas Jr. caught a fish as large as 92 pounds and 54 inches long. This incredible fish was hooked using dead shrimp as bait. It was fished from a private boat in Cumberland Sound. The official fish weight was confirmed at Wayne Broxton Weighing Station.
More than a decade later, this record still awaits a challenger. Also impressive, it is still not as big as a world record. More details about them are below.
The largest Black Drum catch has set an incredible record in sport fishing. On September 15, 1975, angler Gerald Townsend caught a huge specimen weighing 113 pounds and 1 ounce in the waters off Lewes, Delaware, USA. This catch still holds the All-Tackle World Record title, showcasing the richness of Delaware's coastal waters and the Atlantic Ocean.
This impressive record inspires anglers worldwide and proves the Black Drum species' potential as a trophy catch. It also points to the importance of preserving the wealth of marine ecosystems so that future generations can enjoy fishing.
Deep sea fishing in Georgia is not complete without mentioning Black Sea Bass. This elegant fish is known for its combativeness and delicious meat.
With so many advantages, this fish's popularity is not surprising. Now, it's time to check the world records.
On March 26, 1998, Willie J. Oakman made Georgia's fishing history. He caught a fantastic example of 5 pounds, 12 ounces.
Willie was fishing from Captain Steve Amick's charter boat at Navy Tower R2. The fish was weighed at Gales Seafood in Augusta and entered the record books. Anglers nationwide still admire this remarkable catch.
In 2000, angler Alan Paschal caught the largest specimen of this species, weighing 10 pounds 4 ounces, in the coastal waters of Virginia.
This record indeed indicates the incredible potential of this species. It suggests the possibility of catching large specimens and emphasizes the richness of the Atlantic Ocean's waters.
Cobia is known for its combativeness and the quality of its meat. That is why it is popular among slave hunters.
Cobia swim in warm, shallow waters and are most numerous during migration season. They are known for their speed and strength. Artificial reefs, like those near Tybee Island, provide ideal fishing grounds for this species.
Jeffrey A. Clark set a state record on May 12, 1985. He was fishing off artificial reef A, 7 miles southeast of Tybee Island when he caught a Cobia weighing 88 pounds, 12 ounces. He was using a live eel as bait.
This catch remains one of the most important fishing feats in the state. Discover the astonishing size of the largest Cobia ever caught in the next section!
The world record for Cobia was set on July 9, 1985, on the west coast of Australia. Angler Peter Goulding caught an impressive cobia weighing 135 pounds, 9 ounces, which remains intact today.
This record still stands as a testament to the incredible strength of the cobia fish. Its size testifies to this species' exceptional capabilities.
King Mackerel is known for its speed and sharp teeth. Georgia waters offer excellent fishing opportunities for these fish.
Mackerel are most active during migrations, which is when they are easiest to catch. That's why it's always good to be familiar with their movement and migration patterns.
In 2004, Joe H. Bell set a state record on Gray's Reef. He was fishing from the boat "Playin' to Win." He used a live "greeny" as bait, which allowed him to catch a huge King Mackerel weighing 75 pounds, 12 ounces.
This record continues to challenge anglers to beat Bell's achievement. King Mackerel are often caught by trolling. Live bait that imitates small fish is also used there.
The current world record for King Mackerel is 93 pounds. It was set on April 18, 1999, when angler Steve Graulau caught this impressive fish.
This record remains intact today. However, recent reports of catches that came close to breaking it suggest that future anglers may continue to push the boundaries of this challenging sport.
The Redfish is known for its endurance. It is a real fighter, very agile and strong. The struggle to retrieve it can be a real challenge for every angler.
They are very adaptable and can live in freshwater and saltwater. Because of all these features, they represent a real attraction for anglers. In the following sections, we talk about the largest specimens of this species.
In November 1986, Richard Price caught a historic 47-pound, 7-ounce fish. He fished from Miss Judy II. The precise location of this record was Artificial Reef KC off the coast of Georgia. This catch was verified as a state record and has remained unbeaten for almost four decades.
Price's feat inspired many anglers. Although this impressive catch is not a world record, see below for details on the largest Redfish ever caught.
The world record for Redfish was set in 1984 in North Carolina. Angler David Deuel caught this imposing giant, which is still one of the most impressive in the history of inshore fishing.
This record catch remains etched in the memories of anglers. The battle with this Redfish lasted as long as 45 minutes. During that time, David covered more than a mile while slowly pulling the fish toward the shore.
The Red Snapper is a symbol of deep-sea fishing. It is the dream of every angler looking for a challenge.
With its striking red scales and exceptional strength, it should be no surprise that it is so popular. Its meat is also a real delicacy.
On September 25, 1988, a national record for this species was set. Bill Shearing Jr. made a historic catch at the Savannah Snapper Banks. He fished from the bottom using cedar as bait and caught a Red Snapper weighing 38 pounds.
Shearing's catch is an example of how dedication can bring extraordinary results. Fishing for Red Snapper requires technique and patience. Cedar works best as bait.
In 1996, a historic moment occurred in the hunting of this species. Captain Henry "Doc" Kennedy achieved what many anglers dream of: He caught a 50-pound, 4-ounce teak specimen.
This catch is still talked about today. It inspires anglers all around the globe, and a lot of them would love to see their names recognized!
Striped Bass is also known as Striper. It is one of the most popular fish among anglers in Georgia. These fish are valued for their strength and combativeness.
This fish can reach a considerable size. Its average weight is between 10 and 30 pounds. But it's not rare to find larger specimens here.
Striped Bass holds two state records, made 42 years apart. Both catches are a testament to the potential of Georgia's waters.
Ward was fishing with live bait when he caught this huge fish. Ward's catch set the standard for fishing this species. He inspired many anglers.McConnell caught a fish of identical weight with his skill and the right bait.
These two records symbolize the fighting spirit of Striped Bass and challenge anglers to exceed their weight.
The Striped Bass holds a remarkable world record, set in 2011 by angler Greg Myerson in Connecticut, USA. Myerson's catch shattered the previous record that had stood for three decades.
Myerson caught the enormous fish in just 15 minutes, breaking the previous record of 30 years. The excitement of targeting these fish inspires seasoned and novice anglers alike.
Tarpon is known for its size and acrobatic jumps and represents Georgia's pinnacle of sport fishing.
While fighting can be unpredictable, the dynamics of the encounter may shift rapidly, influenced by the movements and reactions of the fish as well as the surrounding environment.
On July 30, 1995, Christopher Charles Edwards made a catch that will go down in Georgia's fishing history as the national record for this species.
Edwards' catch was verified on certified scales at the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in Brunswick. More than thirty years later, the record still stands.
The world record for the largest Tarpon caught is a testament to the size and strength of this species. Angler Max Domek caught the massive specimen in 2003 on the coast of Guinea-Bissau in West Africa. It weighed 286 pounds, 9 ounces.
This remarkable achievement underscores the enormous potential of Tarpon. Given that large specimens are often caught, it is only a matter of time before an angler breaks this record.
Walleyes are among the most prized fish in Georgia's freshwater lakes. They are known for their unique appearance and tasty meat.
These fish are interesting because their eyes reflect light, enabling them to hunt in the dark.
Gainesville's Wes Carlton broke the state record on February 19, 2016. His catch stunned the fishing community.
The fish bit as many as four times before Wes could finally catch it. This catch broke the previous record, which weighed 11 pounds, 6 ounces. GDNR praised Wes' record as evidence of successful efforts.
On August 2, 1960, the largest specimen of this species ever was caught. Angler Mabry Harper caught a 25-pound Walleye in Old Hickory Lake in Tennessee, USA.
This incredible catch still inspires anglers worldwide. It represents the pinnacle of skill and patience in sport fishing.
Fishing in Georgia is always full of surprises. The possibility of breaking records makes every trip to nature more exciting. We have listed only a part of the impressive record catches. Georgia Water offers many more opportunities for those who want to make their mark. Every throw can be. You may be the one to break some of these incredible records.
What do you think about Georgia fish records? Which of the above catches seems the most impressive? Do you have your own Georgia fishing stories? Please share your experiences 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. While we strive to keep all information current, some details may occasionally become outdated.
The expert copywriters at Anglers Booking have meticulously crafted this article. Our dedicated team of writers provides valuable insights and information to enhance your angling experience.
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