North Carolina: State Record Fish Catches

North Carolina is known for its variety of fishing destinations. The impressive catches that happen here are breathtaking and break records. From the coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean to calm lakes and rivers, this state offers endless opportunities for anglers. Every corner of the water holds the potential for an incredible catch. Many of them ended up in the record books.

This guide will explore North Carolina's most famous fishing records. We will present stories about catches and provide data on the largest catches in the state's history. 

We will also compare state and world records. This article will inspire you to hunt for the fish of your dreams. Who knows, you may break the next record!

Largest Fish Caught in North Carolina by Species

North Carolina's rich waters harbor a wide variety of fish. In lakes, rivers, and the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, enormous specimens of many species are found. This country offers unforgettable fishing opportunities.

Regarding records, North Carolina stands out for its incredible catches. Each of those catches brings a story of endurance and skill. Of course, each of them needs a little luck. We have prepared a list of the most impressive specimens by species. That way, you'll find out more easily which fish have marked the North Carolina fishing scene.

Largemouth Bass 

Largemouth Bass are among the most popular freshwater fish in the United States. They are known nationwide for their size, strength, and challenge and delight anglers. 

• Appearance: Largemouth Bass are green in color. They have a dark stripe running along their flanks, which is characteristic. They are muscular fish with an average length of about 20 inches.

• Habitat: Bass prefer freshwater habitats, especially warmer waters. Popular fishing spots in North Carolina include Lake Norman and High Rock Lake.

In North Carolina, Bass is the symbol of sport fishing. This species is found in numerous lakes and rivers throughout the state.

State Record

The state record for Largemouth Bass in North Carolina was set in 1991. William H. Wofford caught this giant in Union County. The fish weighed an incredible 15 pounds, 14 ounces. The fight with this specimen lasted about 5 minutes.

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 1991

• Catch: 15 pounds, 14 ounces

• Angler: William H. Wofford

This fish has remained a part of North Carolina history. It is still considered one of the most impressive catches in the state. The real question is whether the record will ever be broken.

World Record

North Carolina's state record is impressive. However, this is not the biggest Largemouth Bass ever caught. The world record was set in 2006 in California when a fish weighing 22 pounds, 4 ounces was caught. 

• World Record: Still active (California, USA)

• Year: 2006

• Catch: 22 pounds, 4 ounces

• Angler: Manabu Kurita

Fisherman Manabu Kurita set this record. Such a record catch represents the pinnacle of sport fishing and shows the growth potential of Largemouth Bass. Their size and strength make for an exciting fight. 

Blue Catfish

Blue Catfish are among North Carolina's most formidable predators. This species is known for its size and fighting spirit. Blue Catfish usually weigh between 20 and 40 pounds, but specimens weighing over 100 pounds are not uncommon. Thus, they are among the largest freshwater fish in this region.

• Appearance: The Blue Catfish has an elongated silver-blue body. He is recognizable by his mustache. Its powerful fins allow it to dominate freshwater habitats. It is a great species to observe and research.

• Habitat: This species inhabits various freshwater areas, primarily lakes and rivers. It is often found in lakes such as Lake Wylie and Lake Norman in North Carolina. As for rivers, it is most abundant in Catawba and Roanoke. 

Blue Catfish are most active during the summer months. However, gigantic specimens can be caught very easily in winter.

State Record

The record for Blue Catfish in North Carolina was set in 2021 on the Roanoke River. Rocky Baker caught a giant fish off Goldsboro. The fish was originally too heavy to weigh on a standard scale, but it weighed 127 pounds, 1 ounce after finding a suitable scale. That beat the previous state record by 5 pounds.

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 2021

• Catch: 127 pounds, 1 ounce

• Angler: Rocky Baker

This catch excited local fishermen and became a symbol of the power of the Roanoke River.

World Record

The world record for Blue Catfish is also tied to the Roanoke River. It belongs to the state of Virginia. This Catfish was caught in Kerr Lake, an artificial lake on the same river. The 2011 catch weighed an incredible 143 pounds, making it the largest Blue Catfish ever caught.

• World Record: Still active (Virginia, USA)

• Year: 2011

• Catch: 143 pounds

• Angler: Nick Anderson

These records highlight the potential of Blue Catfish to reach gigantic dimensions. They show why this fish is a favorite target among anglers and contributes to North Carolina's rich fishing tradition.

Catfish (Flathead)

Flathead Catfish are among the favorite fish to catch. Although slightly smaller than Blue Catfish, they still provide an extremely exciting experience. Common Flathead Catfish weigh between 20 and 30 pounds. This fish is a delight for every avid angler.

• Appearance: The Flathead Catfish has an elongated body and a distinctively flattened head, which gives it a distinctive look. Its color varies from olive green to yellowish-brown, and its belly is slightly lighter.

• Habitat: This species prefers slow rivers and lakes. Some of the most popular places to fish for Flathead Catfish include High Rock Lake and the Neuse River.

Flathead Catfish prefer deep water areas and places with many covers, often fallen trees. They are usually caught at night when they are most active.

State Record

The record for Flathead Catfish in North Carolina was set in 2020 on the Neuse River. Angler Tyler Barnes caught this river giant while fishing at night. The fish weighed 78 pounds, 9 ounces. To keep the fish alive, Tyler first placed them in a water tank. The following day, the fish was measured, and then it was successfully returned to the water.

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 2020.

• Catch: 78 pounds, 9 ounces

• Angler: Tyler Barnes

This magnificent fish is a true testament to the size of the Flathead Catfish. However, it is still behind the world record. See more about that in the next section.

World Record

The world record for Flathead Catfish was set in 1998 at Elk City Reservoir in Independence, Kansas, USA. Angler Ken Paulie caught this imposing fish, which weighed an incredible 123 pounds. 

• World Record: Still active (Kansas, USA)

• Year: 1998

• Catch: 123 pounds

• Angler: Ken Paulie

This record is still active. This catch represents one of the most incredible feats in the history of sport fishing. It means a real challenge and motivation for anglers to surpass it.

Black Crappie

Crappie is a fun fish to catch, and its taste makes it even more attractive to anglers. This species is a favorite among many anglers in North Carolina. 

• Appearance: Black Crappies are light gray with dark spots on their bodies. They usually reach 12 to 14 inches and have broad, laterally flattened bodies, distinguishing them from other types of freshwater fish.

• Habitat: Black Crappies live in shallow freshwater lakes and rivers. They are often found in areas with rich vegetation. Popular fishing spots in North Carolina include Jordan Lake and Falls Lake.

These fish usually live in calm waters and prefer slow or stagnant water areas. It is excellent for improving fishing skills. 

State Record

Dean Dixon caught a Black Crappie weighing 4 pounds, 15 ounces in 1980 at Lucas Lake in Asheboro, setting the state record, which remains unbeaten today. 

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 1980

• Catch: 4 pounds, 15 ounces

• Angler: Dean Dixon

Many anglers tried to take it down. The closest attempt took place in 2022. Then, a competitive angler on High Rock Lake caught a 4-pound, 14-ounce Black Crappie.

World Record

The world record holder is Lionel Ferguson from Tennessee, in 2018. Lionel then caught a 6-pound specimen.

• World Record: Still active (Tennessee, USA)

• Year: 2018

• Catch: 6 pounds

• Angler: Lionel Ferguson

Black Crappie is considered one of the tastiest freshwater fish. That's why it's so popular.

Flounder

Flounder is one of the most prized fish you can catch on the United States East Coast. They are especially sought after in North Carolina. Their delicious meat makes them the perfect choice for all anglers looking to catch a meal. These fish have a very unusual appearance.

• Appearance: Flounders are fish that have a flat, almost round body. Both of their eyes are on one side. Their color may vary. They usually have a brown to grayish tint. Their bellies are lighter. These fish can grow up to 20 inches.

• Habitat: Flounder inhabit shallow coastal waters. They are suited to waters on sandy and muddy bottoms. They can be found along the coast. The best fishing locations are near river mouths and deltas. In such places, the waters bring a wealth of nutrients.

The Cape Fear area is the best hunting ground in North Carolina and also holds the national record for the largest catch of this type of fish. 

State Record

The state record for Flounder in North Carolina was set in 1980. Angler Harold Auten caught this massive fish in the Carolina Beach area. It weighed 20 pounds, 8 ounces.

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 1980

• Catch: 20 pounds, 8 ounces

• Angler: Harold Auten

This was, without a doubt, quite an undertaking. However, it is not the largest fish of this species ever caught.

World Record

The world record for Flounder was set in 1975. The record location was in Montauk, New York. There, boat captain Charles Nappi caught a 22-pound, 7-ounce Flounder. This record still stands.

• World Record: Still active (New York, USA)

• Year: 1975

• Catch:  22 pounds, 7 ounces

• Angler: Charles Nappi

This catch is one of the most significant efforts in the history of Flounder fishing. Flounders are unusual fish, but their size and taste make them challenging to catch.

Blue Marlin

Regarding size and speed, few fish can compete with the Blue Marlin. The fights these fish put on are legendary.

• Appearance: The Blue Marlin has a distinctive slender body that gives it exceptional speed and strength. Its body is painted blue, and its belly is silvery. These fish can reach up to 16 feet long and often exceed 1,000 pounds. The Blue Marlin is known for its imposing tail, which aids in speed and maneuverability.

• Habitat: Blue Marlins live in tropical and subtropical waters. They are most common in oceans at depths of 980 to 1,640 feet, often in the Gulf Stream area.

This fish is unique, perhaps the most prized catch among fishermen in this area.

State Record

Blue Marlin has significant records, which show its greatness and strength. Let's start with the state record for North Carolina.

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 2008

• Catch: 1,228 pounds

• Angler: Trey Irvine

This record was set during the Pirate's Cove Billfish Tournament. The angler's battle with this magnificent fish ended with this impressive catch. Trey Irvine won a prize of almost $500,000.

World Record

Paolo Amorim holds the world record for catching a 1,400-pound Marlin, which he did in Vitoria in 1992.

• World Record: Still active (Vitoria, Brazil)

• Year: 1992

• Catch: 1,400  pounds

• Angler:  Paolo Amorim

Even after over thirty years, this record remains unbeaten and stands firm, which speaks volumes about its feat.

Redfish

Redfish is also known as "Red Drum." This fish is one of the most popular creatures among anglers along the coasts of the United States of America. It has bronze scales and a recognizable black spot on the tail. This fish is known for its combativeness.

• Appearance: Redfish are recognizable by their bronze body. Its elongated body is adapted for combat resistance. Specimens can reach lengths of 40 inches or more. 

• Habitat: Redfish inhabit shallow coastal waters and prefer habitats rich in vegetation. They are most active in the warmer months.

Redfish live year-round in North Carolina's coastal waters, making them available for nonstop fishing. Activity significantly increases in autumn, when the large specimens known as "Bull Redfish" appear.

State Record

The North Carolina record for Redfish was set back in 1984. On the beach in Avon, David Deuel caught this huge fish. 

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 1984

• Catch: 94 pounds, 2 ounces

• Angler: David Deuel

This catch remains one of the most impressive in the history of inshore fishing. It was recorded that the fight lasted as long as 45 minutes. David covered more than a mile as he pulled it ashore.  This catch is also a world record.

World Record

Are you confused that you see the same data in the bullet list as for the North Carolina record? Well, don't worry, it's not a mistake. North Carolina's record is simply a world record!

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

• Year: 1984

• Catch: 94 pounds 2 ounces

• Angler: David Deuel

This record serves as a reminder of what kind of specimens you can find in North Carolina. Many fishermen visit this area every year to try their luck.

Speckled Trout

Speckled Trout is one of the favorite species among North Carolina anglers. These fish are valued for their elegant appearance. Speckled Trout know how to surprise by jumping out of the water, which makes them especially attractive to sports fishing enthusiasts. The average weight of these fish is between 2 and 3 pounds.

• Appearance: Speckled Trout has an elongated body, a slightly pointed head, and sharp teeth, making it suitable for catching small fish. Trophy specimens can exceed 30 inches.

• Habitat: Speckled Trout inhabit the coastal waters of North Carolina. They are especially abundant in the Cape Fear and Outer Banks regions but prefer bays and river estuaries. The best fishing is in autumn.

North Carolina offers plenty of opportunities to catch these beautiful fish. Don't miss it!

State Record

The North Carolina Speckled Trout record was set in February 2022. Angler Todd Spangler caught this giant near the mouth of the Neuse River, breaking the previous record of 60 years.

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 2022

• Catch: 12 pounds, 8 ounces

• Angler: Todd Spangler

This impressive catch inspires many anglers. Choosing the right location and time is the key to successful Speckled Trout fishing. 

World Record

The world record for Speckled Trout was set in 1994. It was caught during fishing in Florida waters by Craig Carson, who caught a specimen weighing as much as 17 pounds, 7 ounces.

• World Record: Still active (Florida, USA)

• Year: 1994

• Catch: 17 pounds, 7 ounces

• Angler: Craig Carson

This catch still holds the place in history as the largest Speckled Trout on record. The record provides evidence of the potential of this species. Maybe you are the next record holder!

Swordfish

Swordfish is one of the most impressive and challenging fish to catch. As a member of the Billfish family, these fish are known for their incredible speed and acrobatics. They have powerful bodies. Swordfish often weigh several hundred pounds. Trophy specimens can weigh more than 1,000 pounds.

• Appearance: Swordfish are easily recognized by their long, straight "sword." It extends from the upper jaw. It has an aerodynamic body covered in dark gray scales. These fish can reach lengths of over 14 feet. This makes them one of the largest species of fish caught by sport fishing.

• Habitat: This species prefers deep ocean canyons. Swordfish are commonly found about 60 miles offshore, and these zones are used as hunting grounds. They feed primarily at night and then move to shallower depths.

Swordfish are a real challenge. They are incredible prey for anglers who dare to face their strength. With the right guide and equipment, you can catch a good one!

State Record

The North Carolina record for swordfish was set in 2022. Anglers Cary and Brandon Carney caught a specimen weighing an incredible 504 pounds, 8 ounces in the waters off Morehead City.

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 2022

• Catch: 504 pounds, 8 ounces

• Anglers: Cary and Brandon Carney

Their catch was not only a record but also inspiring. The fight with the fish lasted 2.5 hours, and it took this long because the electrical machine Cary used to hook the swordfish malfunctioned.

World Record

The world record for Swordfish was set in 1953. Legendary angler Lou Marron caught a Swordfish weighing an incredible 1,182 pounds off the coast of Chile. Lou was fishing with his wife, Genie, at the time. Their feat earned them places in the IGFA.

• World Record: Still active (Iquique, Chile)

• Year: 1953

• Catch: 1,182 pounds

• Angler: Lou Marron

This catch remains one of the greatest feats in sport fishing history. After all this time, it remains active. Will it ever be outdone? Who knows, time ahead will tell. Despite many attempts, the record older than 70 years remains active. 

Tuna (Bluefin)

Bluefin Tuna is a highly prized fish. It is characterized by endurance and strength. In addition, she is very combative. In addition, the Bluefin is also a giant fish. 

• Appearance: Bluefin tuna is recognizable by its dark blue color on the back. His belly is silvery. These fish can reach a length of up to 12 feet. They have a torpedo-shaped body. This enables them to move quickly. Because of their enormous size, they often cause admiration among anglers.

• Habitat: Bluefin tuna is a migratory fish. It survives in colder ocean waters. In North Carolina, Bluefin Tuna can be found in the Gulf Stream. The best place to fish for Bluefin Tuna is Hatteras, the southern part of the Outer Banks. 

The Bluefin Tuna fishing season in North Carolina runs through the winter when the fish migrate to the southeast.

State Record

The North Carolina record for Bluefin Tuna was set in 2017. Angler Scott Chambers set the record. He caught an 877-pound Bluefin Tuna on his trophy trip to Wanchese, NC. His catch was a real feat. 

• North Carolina Record: Still active

• Year: 2017

• Catch: 877 pounds

• Angler:  Scott Chambers

The fight with the fish lasted as long as two hours. The fish was so big that it took another 90 minutes to drag into the boat.

World Record

The world record for Bluefin Tuna was set in 1979. Angler Ken Fraser caught a bluefin tuna weighing 1,496 pounds. This feat was accomplished off the coast of Nova Scotia. Ken Fraser made sport fishing history with his catch.

• World Record: Still active (Nova Scotia, Canada)

• Year: 1979

• Catch: 1,496 pounds

• Angler: Ken Fraser 

Although the North Carolina Bluefin Tuna record was set several years ago, nothing compares to this world record. This feat continues to inspire anglers around the world.

Final Thoughts

These are state records for some of North Carolina's most popular fish species. Every year, anglers set new personal bests in these waters. They create memories they will never forget.

With some skill and luck, you, too, may be able to land your trophy catch. And when a new record is broken, we're here to let you know. 

How did you like our roundup of state records for North Carolina fish? Did any of the entries surprise you? What catch is your most considerable success? Share your experiences with us 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.