what was the biggest catfish ever caught

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Biggest catfish on record?** The Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas) is widely considered the largest freshwater catfish species. In the wild, individuals have been reported up to about 646 pounds (approximately 293 kg). While there are many dramatic claims and sensational photos, truly verified heavyweight catches are rare due to conservation status and the fact that some giants dwell in protected or hard-to-reach waters. The Mekong giant catfish is sometimes discussed as the ‘biggest catfish ever caught,’ though documentation varies and some claims remain unverified.

If you’re thinking about sport fishing, the heaviest catfish captured on rod and reel is often associated with the Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) in Europe, with credible records reaching well into the 100+ kg range, but numbers vary by source. The key takeaway: big catfish exist across several species, but the Mekong’s giants are among the most legendary.

For context, check these real-world videos showing massive catfish and the scale of the fight:
- [biggest catfish in the world](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfOK24RRxyI)
- [Catching a monster catfish](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1C1HIfzV5M)
- [Dad caught a big catfish #shorts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycSoWNdNARA)

Gear and techniques to chase big cats (general guidance):
- Target deep holes and channel edges where big cats lurk; late season (mid fall) can still offer warm-water pockets and active feeding windows as temperatures drop.
- Use stout gear: heavy-duty rod and reel capable of handling lines in the 60–100+ lb class, and a reliable 80–100 lb braid or mono leader.
- Rig options: bottom rigs with circle hooks and sturdy sinkers; use live bait (carp, large chubs, or cut bait) or big chunks of fresh fish to entice heavyweight bites.
- Presentations: bottom-bouncing or slow-trolling baits can trigger long, hard runs; be ready for a strong, head-shaking fight.
- Patience and location: big cats often bite in low-light periods (dawn/dusk) and around structure—logs, ledges, drop-offs, or river bends.
- Safety: big catfish fights can be brutal; always have a solid fighting belt or strap in your boat and use a strong landing net.

Useful gear ideas (real-world picks):
- [TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax, segmented swimbait setup](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GP1DL4K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [Fishing Lures Multi Jointed Fish Lures Kit – Bass/Trout/Pike etc.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09J4CR24K?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [193PCS Fishing Lures Kit with Tackle Box](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR2ZYCNX?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- [TRUSCEND Top Water Lures – floating/wobble types](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T1FKL9Z?tag=tacklenet-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)

Note: Always verify current regulations; many giant-catfish species are protected or catch-and-release only in certain regions.

Bottom line: the Mekong giant catfish stands as the heavyweight icon among giant catfish, with world records and regional catches variable; chasing such giants requires planning, patience, and top-tier gear. Stay curious, stay safe, and keep chasing the next big bite! 🐟💪

General Questions

More Questions

How to catch whiting in Lake Macquarie

Question is What is the best shore jigging spot in san Vito lo capo?

Is Abu Garcia reel suitable for lead core fishing?

What backpack tackle box should I get? I already have lures and hooks, but I need a cheap backpack with trays included.

Is the Strike King Hack Attack rigged with a 6-inch worm?

What is the best time of day to catch walleye in Minnesota?

Where do fish go in the winter on the Tennessee River?

Where is the best place to fish for fluke in Westchester County, NY?

Question is what was the biggest catfish ever caught

Related Videos

Product Recommendations

TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax, Magic Noisy Turbulent Wiggling and Vibrating Actions for More Bites, Segmented Swimbait Jointed by Dyneema Strongest Fiber, Lifelike Fishing Lures for Relax Family Fishing

Fishing Lures Multi Jointed Fish Fishing Kits, Slow Sinking Lifelike Swimbaits Crankbaits Hard Baits Lure Set, Fishing Gear for Bass Trout Pike Walleye, Freshwater Saltwater Predator Bait

193PCS Fishing Lures Kit with Tackle Box, Freshwater Saltwater Bass Lures Set – Hard Baits, Soft Plastic Worms, Crankbaits, Spinner Baits, Frog Lures, Fishing Hooks & Accessories

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Jighead Lures Paddle Tail Swimbaits Soft Fishing Baits Freshwater Saltwater Jigging Bass Gear Gifts for Men

HALF CRESCEN Fishing Lures Kit for Diving Bass/Trout/Pike with Lifelike Action, Fishing Gear Set for 2025 Xmas (Gift Box 1)

TRUSCEND Fishing Jigs Lures with Handmade Lead Heads Paddle Tail Spinner Baits for Bass Trout Walleye Musky Soft Plastic Fishing Lures

10PCS Fishing Lures Kit – Inline Spinner Baits with Brass/Copper Spinner,Freshwater Trout Bass Salmon Lures,Includes Tackle Box for Fishing Tackle

TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures with BKK Hooks, Whopper for Freshwater or Saltwater, Floating Lure Bass Catfish Pike, Wobble Surface Bait Teasers Gifts Men

Community

General Questions

fish

Between fishing early tomorrow morning (around daylight) and fishing Sunday afternoon - which would you recommend

Between fishing early tomorrow morning (around daylight) and fishing Sunday afternoon - which would you recommend

What is the best egi jig for an early-morning overcast day?

Question is what was the biggest catfish ever caught

Related Videos

Product Recommendations

TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax, Magic Noisy Turbulent Wiggling and Vibrating Actions for More Bites, Segmented Swimbait Jointed by Dyneema Strongest Fiber, Lifelike Fishing Lures for Relax Family Fishing

Fishing Lures Multi Jointed Fish Fishing Kits, Slow Sinking Lifelike Swimbaits Crankbaits Hard Baits Lure Set, Fishing Gear for Bass Trout Pike Walleye, Freshwater Saltwater Predator Bait

193PCS Fishing Lures Kit with Tackle Box, Freshwater Saltwater Bass Lures Set – Hard Baits, Soft Plastic Worms, Crankbaits, Spinner Baits, Frog Lures, Fishing Hooks & Accessories

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Jighead Lures Paddle Tail Swimbaits Soft Fishing Baits Freshwater Saltwater Jigging Bass Gear Gifts for Men

HALF CRESCEN Fishing Lures Kit for Diving Bass/Trout/Pike with Lifelike Action, Fishing Gear Set for 2025 Xmas (Gift Box 1)

TRUSCEND Fishing Jigs Lures with Handmade Lead Heads Paddle Tail Spinner Baits for Bass Trout Walleye Musky Soft Plastic Fishing Lures

10PCS Fishing Lures Kit – Inline Spinner Baits with Brass/Copper Spinner,Freshwater Trout Bass Salmon Lures,Includes Tackle Box for Fishing Tackle

TRUSCEND Top Water Fishing Lures with BKK Hooks, Whopper for Freshwater or Saltwater, Floating Lure Bass Catfish Pike, Wobble Surface Bait Teasers Gifts Men

Community

How to catch whiting in Lake Macquarie

Question is What is the best shore jigging spot in san Vito lo capo?

Is Abu Garcia reel suitable for lead core fishing?

What backpack tackle box should I get? I already have lures and hooks, but I need a cheap backpack with trays included.

Is the Strike King Hack Attack rigged with a 6-inch worm?

What is the best time of day to catch walleye in Minnesota?

Where do fish go in the winter on the Tennessee River?

Where is the best place to fish for fluke in Westchester County, NY?

fish

Between fishing early tomorrow morning (around daylight) and fishing Sunday afternoon - which would you recommend

Between fishing early tomorrow morning (around daylight) and fishing Sunday afternoon - which would you recommend

What is the best egi jig for an early-morning overcast day?