Louisiana: State Record Fish Catches

Louisiana is the right destination for all fishing enthusiasts. This state offers a variety of fishing adventures. Every time you cast, there is a chance you will have a catch to remember. 

In addition, Louisiana is known for something else: its warm southern atmosphere. While fishing, you will enjoy the favorable climate. You will understand its potential when we reveal Louisiana's records to you. Louisiana waters hold tales of legendary catches. 

This guide explores Louisiana's most famous fishing records. It details impressive catches and identifies the anglers who own them. These stories will motivate you to seek a record catch in this state.

Largest Fish Caught in Louisiana by Species

Fishing in Louisiana is all about challenge and adventure. In the Gulf of Mexico waters, catches often start exciting stories. For anglers, fighting in fast sea currents becomes an unforgettable experience. Louisiana's coastal reefs harbor a wealth of life.

For freshwater anglers, Louisiana's rivers and lakes provide the opportunity to catch real trophies. Those looking for a challenge can add their name to the books of fishing achievements. Of course, they just need a little luck. Get details on record catches across the state. We will present record catches in this country by species. We will also compare them with world records.

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass is one of the most prized freshwater fish in the United States. It is very combative and characterized by size and strength. This fish can be found in lakes and rivers all over the country. 

• Appearance: Largemouth Bass are not difficult to recognize. Its body is green or olive, with a dark stripe along its flanks. Its large mouth extends beyond the back line of his eyes. The length often exceeds 20 inches, and the weight can reach over 15 pounds.
• Habitat: This fish prefers a variety of freshwater ecosystems, such as lakes with rich vegetation. Slow-flowing rivers also suit them.

Largemouth Bass symbolizes the sport side of fishing. Its resilience and adaptability make it a fascinating research subject, and it is a real challenge for every angler.

State Record

The most famous catch in the history of the Largemouth Bass fishery was in Louisiana in 1994 at Caney Lake. Angler Greg Wiggins caught a huge fish. 

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 1994
• Weight: 15.97 pounds
• Angler: Greg Wiggins

This catch retained its state record status in Louisiana. Its size has inspired many anglers to try to beat this score, but no one has managed to do so yet.

World Record

While the Louisiana record is impressive, it is not the largest Largemouth Bass ever caught. The world record was set in 2006 when a specimen weighing an incredible 22 pounds, 4 ounces, was caught in California.

• World Record: Still Active (California, USA)
• Year: 2006
• Weight: 22 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Manabu Kurita

This catch, made by angler Manabu Kurita, is the pinnacle of sport fishing. Its weight and fighting spirit make this fish a dream challenge. The world record highlights the enormous growth potential of Largemouth Bass, which fascinates anglers worldwide.

Redfish

Redfish, also known as the Red Drum, is a popular fish species. There are several reasons for its popularity. First, Redfish are characterized by strength. 

• Appearance: Redfish are easily recognizable, with bodies covered in bronze-red shades. They have a characteristic black spot near the tail. Sometimes, they can have more than one spot. The average weight of adults is between 10 and 30 pounds. Larger specimens are not rare, either. They have an elongated, aerodynamic body and are perfectly adapted for fast water movement. That is why it is not easy to catch them.
• Habitat: This fish most often inhabits coastal waters and shallow lagoons, especially river mouths where fresh and saltwater mix. In winter, Redfish often retreat to deeper water, while in summer, they gather in the shallows, making them accessible to anglers. 

Due to their speed and strength, Redfish are considered a real challenge. Their fierce nature promises exciting battles, and their distinctive color makes them a unique catch.

State Record

State records for Redfish catch occurred in 1992. David Weber broke the Louisiana record, catching a specimen that weighed 61 pounds. 

• Louisiana Record: Still Active
• Year: June 1992
• Catch: 61 pounds
• Angler: David Weber

This 1992 catch inspires many anglers. David Weber's record is proof of how magnificent Redfish can be.

World Record

The largest Redfish even breaks Louisiana's record. The world record happened in North Carolina’s waters, rich in giant Redfish.

• World Record: Still active (North Carolina, USA)
• Year: 1984
• Catch: 95 pounds
• Angler: George Hogan Jr.

George Hogan Jr. set the world record in 1984 with a catch of 95 pounds. After so many years, this record is still active. The real question is, will it ever be beaten?

Flounder

Louisiana is known for its wetlands, which also hide one of the most prized catches of coastal fish: Flounder. These unusually shaped fish are considered extremely tasty. Night fishing is the most successful way to catch this species.

• Appearance: Their flattened bodies allow them to move along the seabed, and the dark side of their bodies is adapted for camouflage in the sand. 
• Habitat: Estuaries and wetlands rich in nutrients are their habitat.

The Flounder is adapted to life on the sea floor, where it feeds on smaller fish and crustaceans. Its ability to camouflage makes it challenging for anglers.

State Record

Flounder is a highly prized catch in Louisiana. The state record for this fish speaks of its popularity. Every year, many anglers try to set a new record. However, it is not that easy. Below, you can check details about the state record.

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 1998
• Catch: 13.06 pounds
• Angler: Gary Hargis

Gary Hargis caught this exceptional specimen in 1998. It weighed 13.06 pounds. 

World Record

Laurenza Mungin caught a record Flounder in Florida. The record was set in 1993.

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)
• Year: 1983
• Catch: 20 pounds, 9 ounces
• Angler: Larenza Mungin

This record fish, 33 inches long, was caught using shrimp as bait. The fight lasted 15 minutes.

Speckled Trout 

Speckled Trout are a tangible symbol for saltwater anglers. They are known as The King of saltwater. They are widespread and challenging, and their title as the king of coastal waters is well deserved.

• Appearance: Its long, slender, silvery body is covered with numerous black dots.
• Habitat: Primarily inhabit coastal zones, estuaries, and river mouths but also live in lakes and swamps.

This Trout prefers waters with medium salinity and is a highly adaptable species that successfully inhabits different ecosystems. 

State Record

Louisiana Speckled Trout is a fish that commands respect. The national record for this fish was set by Leon Mattes in 1950. He then caught a record specimen.

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 1950
• Catch: 12.38 pounds
• Angler: Leon Mattes

This record catch from Lake Hermitage confirms the versatility and adaptability of Speckled Trout. Even in lakes with lower salinity, they reached impressive sizes. Leon Mattes proved that persistence can lead to incredible success.

World Record

The world record for Speckled Trout was set in Florida. On May 11, 1995,7 ounces while Craig Carson caught a huge fish weighing 17 pounds, 7 ounces. This catch happened while he was fishing in Fort Pierce.

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)
• Year: 1995
• Catch: 17 pounds, 7 ounces
• Angler: Craig Carson

This catch became legendary. Craig didn't even know he had set a new world record. He became aware of his accomplishments only after the measurements.

Sailfish

If you are looking for a real adventure, a Sailfish is the right choice for fishing. This fish will add adrenaline to your fishing experience. These magnificent creatures are known for their speed and spectacular jumps, making them one of the most exciting catches in sea fishing.

• Appearance: They have a slender body that allows for exceptional speed and a fugue, a pointed beak that resembles a sword. The large dorsal fin, shaped like a sail, gave the species its name. Their backs are dark blue.
• Habitat: They are best suited to open ocean waters up to 100 miles offshore and are commonly seen in Louisiana during the summer, as they prefer warm waters. They actively feed in areas rich in prey.

Sailfish are considered among the fastest sea creatures. Their specific appearance makes them a real challenge for anglers, so it should be no surprise that they are so popular.

State Record

The largest Sailfish caught in Louisiana was recorded in 1953. John Lauricella caught this specimen, which weighed 96 pounds. 

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 1953
• Catch: 96 pounds
• Angler: John Lauricella

It remains a symbol of Louisiana fishing excellence. It testifies to the wealth of its waters.

World Record

The world record for Sailfish was set in 1996. Hakan Ekberg caught an incredible specimen weighing 121 pounds, 11 ounces in the waters near Luanda.

• World Record: Still active (Luanda, Angola)
• Year: 1996
• Catch: 121 pounds, 11 ounces
• Angler: Hakan Ekberg

This impressive catch is remembered as one of the greatest in fishing history and an inspiration to all fans of the sport.

Sheepshead 

Speaking of unusual creatures, Sheepshead occupies a special place. This fish has a distinctive appearance, and its intriguing behavior attracts anglers. Their cunning makes them one of the most enjoyable fishing challenges. 

• Appearance: Its silver, oval body is covered with thick scales, and its stripes are prison-like. Its teeth are certainly a striking feature. The fish are adapted to crushing shells and crustaceans. Their physical structure makes them unique in the fish world. 
• Habitat: They swim near structures such as pillars, estuaries, coastal zones, and places rich in shellfish and crustaceans suit them. They are active throughout the year but are primarily hunted in the spring. 

Sheepshead is known as a real "trick" fish because it can steal bait. Catching them requires patience and skill. Their meat is considered to be of exceptional quality. 

State Record

The largest Sheepshead caught in Louisiana was recorded in 1982. This impressive catch still holds the state record. 

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 1982
• Catch: 21 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Wayne J. Desselle

This catch was posted in April of that year. Angler Wayne J. Desselle holds this record. Be sure to check out the next section. You might be surprised to see the world record.

World Record

The world record for Sheepshead matches the Louisiana state record. Wayne Desselle caught this record fish in New Orleans, securing his place in fishing history and making his catch a world symbol of success.

• World Record: Still active (Louisiana, USA)
• Year: 1982
• Catch: 21 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Wayne Desselle

This catch weighed 21 pounds. It has become an indicator of the kind of adventure fishing in Louisiana offers.

Red Snapper

Red Snappers are a real attraction for anglers in Louisiana. The open season of Red Snapper every year causes great excitement among anglers. You can also catch Red Snapper close to the shore. However, the further you go, the bigger the fish get.

• Appearance: It has a massive body with a red hue and sharp, spindly fins. 
• Habitat: Most are found in open sea waters, mainly around oil platforms and artificial reefs, at depths of 60 to 200 feet. Occasionally, they come closer to the coast. 

Records are the best evidence of this fish's size and provide interesting information about persistent and patient anglers.

State Record

The record for Louisiana's largest Red Snapper catch was set in 1996. Henry "Doc" Kennedy holds the record.

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 1996
• Catch: 50 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Henry "Doc" Kennedy

This catch still represents the standard for anglers in Louisiana, symbolizes the greatness of this species, and is also a world record.

World Record

The world record for Red Snapper is a Louisiana record, established in 1996. Captain Henry "Doc" Kennedy caught a record 50-pound, 4-ounce Red Snapper. 

• World Record: Still active (Louisiana, USA)
• Year: 1996
• Catch: 50 pounds, 4 ounces
• Angler: Henry "Doc" Kennedy

The story of this record is interesting. Captain Kennedy had an even larger specimen on another hook, but it escaped.

Yellowfin Tuna

Louisiana's waters are known for their vibrant fish stock, with Yellowfin Tuna being a standout species. This fish offers excitement for anglers, with spring marking the spawning season, summer providing calmer fishing, and fall and winter bringing larger, more significant catches.

• Appearance: They have an aerodynamic, metallic silver body with light yellow fins. Every feature of the Yellowfin Tuna's body is adapted to their life in deep ocean waters. They are also highly effective predators.
• Habitat: Inhabit open ocean waters at depths of 150 to 300 feet and can often be found near underwater reefs. They prefer warm, tropical and subtropical waters. Their habitats make them accessible to anglers all year round. 

Louisiana's wealth of artificial reefs and oil rigs provide ideal conditions for hunting these ocean giants.

State Record

The state record for Yellowfin Tuna was set in 2012. Elliot Sale caught an impressive specimen that weighed 251 pounds.

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 2012
• Catch: 251 pounds
• Angler: Elliot Sale

This catch has become a local fishing legend, attracting enthusiasts from all over the world. Louisiana waters are also a place where fishing limits are being pushed.

World Record

The world record for Yellowfin Tuna was broken in 2024, when Earl Gill IV landed a 443-pound giant in the Lower Banks off Mexico aboard the Excel, captained by Justin Fleck. After a 1-hour and 45-minute battle, the fish was officially weighed on a certified scale at Fisherman's Landing in San Diego.

• World Record: Still active (Lower Banks, Mexico)
• Year: 2024
• Catch: 443 pounds
• Angler: Earl Gill IV

Stories of such catches remind us of how challenging Yellowfin Tuna fishing is. They also show how richly it rewards those who are ready for adventure. The Gulf Coast remains a legendary fishing destination for these fish.

Mahi Mahi 

If you are looking for a summer fishing spectacle, the Mahi Mahi, also known as the Dolphin fish, is the right choice. This fish enchants with its vivid colors, is known for its acrobatic jumps, and is characterized by incredible speed. 

• Appearance: Their elongated bodies are in shades of green, blue, and gold, and they have large fins on their backs. The colors become more intense when excited or stressed. Their unique appearance makes them one of the most beautiful catches and shows how adapted they are to their dynamic lifestyle.
• Habitat: They prefer open ocean waters and swim near oil rigs and reefs. They are mainly active in the summer. Their natural habitat allows anglers to catch them relatively close to shore, making them easily accessible.

Mahi Mahi fishing in Louisiana often involves trolling as the primary technique. Ballyhoo is frequently used as bait. 

State Record

Mahi Mahi fishing in Louisiana peaked in June 1976. Then, Robert Prest IV caught a stunning specimen that weighed as much as 71.25 pounds.

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 1976
• Catch: 71.25 pounds
• Angler: Robert Prest IV

This catch has become a symbol of successful summer fishing in Louisiana. It highlights the country's water wealth and shows its potential for recreational fishing at a high level.

World Record

The world record for Mahi Mahi comes from the famous waters of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Record catches are regularly recorded there. Tera Allegri set an IGFA record. On August 16, 1993, she caught a specimen weighing 82 pounds, 2 ounces.

• World Record: Still active (Baja California, Mexico)
• Year: 1993
• Catch: 82 pounds, 2 ounces
• Angler: Tera Allegri

This impressive catch came after a 20-minute fight. The fish was caught using a Sevenstrand skirt trolled. The record is a testament to Teri's fishing prowess and an inspiration for anglers worldwide. Louisiana offers a similar adventure for those who want to test their fishing skills.

Catfish 

Catfish often hide in Mississippi River vegetation and mountain reservoirs. Regardless of their size, Catfish are known for always being hungry. They are not too picky. They will bite almost anything offered to them.

• Appearance: They have a long, flat body with a large head and whiskers. The whiskers serve as a sensor for prey. They are blue or grayish. 
• Habitat: They live in deep, muddy parts of rivers and lakes. The best time to catch them is late spring or early summer. 

Catfish are nocturnal hunters. They are also very active in the early morning and at sunset. Their rugged appearance suggests how challenging they can be to extract.

State Record

Louisiana has a long history of impressive Catfish catches. The biggest of all happened in 2014. Then Lawson Boyte caught a 114-pound giant in the Mississippi River.

• Louisiana Record: Still active
• Year: 2014
• Catch: 114 pounds
• Angler: Lawson Boyte

This catch was the result of a perfect combination of timing and experience. Of course, there was also a little luck. Fishing for these giants is a real adventure. This catch forever marked Lawson's fishing career.

World Record

The world record for the Blue Catfish was set on June 18, 2011, on Kerr Lake (Buggs Island) in Virginia. Richard Nicholas Anderson caught a fish that weighed an incredible 143 pounds.

• World Record: Still active (Virginia, USA)
• Year: 2011
• Catch: 143 pounds
• Angler: Richard Nicholas Anderson

Anderson's catch symbolizes the world fishing record for this species. Although this feat is often recounted, the world record catch remains a challenge for Louisiana anglers for Louisiana anglers. 

Final Thoughts

This text provides an overview of Louisiana's most impressive fishing records. Of course, these are only current records. There is no doubt that some of them will be outdated very quickly. Because fishing is a sport, the boundaries are constantly shifting. That means you might be Louisiana's next record holder. 

Which catch excited you the most? Do you have interesting fishing stories from Louisiana? We look forward to your comments and experiences!

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.