What is the heaviest fish in the world?

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**The heaviest fish in the world is the whale shark (Rhincodon typus).** These gentle giants can weigh up to about 20.6 metric tons (roughly 45,000 pounds) and stretch to lengths of 60+ feet. They’re the largest living fish by both size and weight, cruising warm oceans and filtering plankton as they go. While you’ll never wrestle one on a bass boat, this fact is a neat reminder of the incredible diversity that lives in our waters. For context, other massive species exist (basking sharks, giant groupers, and giant catfish), but the crown for “heaviest” goes to the whale shark.

As bass anglers, understanding the scale of big fish helps sharpen our on-water intuition: if a true giant can exist in the same water you fish, structure, current, and feeding events matter at all levels. Here’s how that perspective shapes your day on the water, especially in late summer when air and water temperatures are up and fish movement tightens around structure.

- **Gear readiness:** When you’re out chasing bass, be prepared for the rare moment you hook something heavier than you expected. Use stout gear and a confident drag. Think line in the 20–50 lb class depending on your setup, and have a heavy leader ready if you’re fishing near heavy cover.
- **Structure and depth cues:** Big fish—whether bass or pelagic giants—tend to hold to structural features. In late summer, look for weed edges, turning points near deeper water, and creek channels. Big lures and steady pressure often beat tiny, rapid retrieves when the bite is slow.
- **Lure approach:** If you’re targeting big bass this time of year, consider larger, louder baits that call out to wary fish along the edges. A big swimbait or a loud topwater in low light can produce when the sun is high.

If you want to see some awe-inspiring giants in action, check these videos for scale and power (great context for size, behavior, and tackle):
- [GIANT GOLIATH GROUPER EATS LIVE CATFISH ON THE SURFACE!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIJeew8HGl4) 🐟
- [The Biggest Fish I’ve Ever Caught! Unreal! 🎣🐟 #fishing #bigfish #viral #shorts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWyG4cC1fTI)
- [Giant Catfish Caught by Angler! 🦭🐟🐲🐙 #giantcreature #derpseafishing](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJZftJe8t8M)
- [What Is The Largest Fish Ever Caught? 🌎](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6mid1C-PE4)

For gear you might want on hand when big fish show up (or to keep in the boat for other heavy-duty tasks), here are some solid options: 
- [KastKing SteelStream 6pc Fishing Tool Kit - Corrosion Resistant Pliers, Knife, Scissors, and more](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNCYJHG5?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) 
- [PLUSINNO 264/397pcs Fishing Accessories Kit - Tackle Box with Hooks, Weights, and More](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B9BW96MG?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) 
- [KastKing BlowBak Tactical Sling Tackle Bag - Lightweight, Durable Storage](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08X6K53VX?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1) 
- [FONMANG 322-Piece Fishing Lures Kit - Lures, Hooks, and Accessories](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CJ576JRP?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

**Tip for late summer bass sessions:** go with a stealthy but impactful approach—use a big, slow-rolling bait near weedlines at dawn or dusk. Keep your line tight, your rod tip high, and be ready for a strong take. Weather shifts can push big fish into shallower or more defined ambush spots, so adjust your depth and retrieve pace accordingly.

Stay patient, stay tuned to the water, and remember: every giant starts with a confident plan and the right gear. You’ve got this, and the next bite could be your best yet! 🧭🎣

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