SEAFORD, Del. - The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has confirmed a new state record blue catfish-- the fourth record set in the 2023 Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament.
The department says the fish is 42.5 inches and 48 pounds and 7.2 ounces. They say it was caught earlier in September by Chris Andrews from Bridgeville. Andrews says he caught the fish on his personal boat while with friends. It beats the previous record, by just four ounces, set in 2022.
“Fishing is a big part of my life – I go out about three times a week, so I guess you’d say I’m an avid fisherman,” said Andrews, noting it was just another quiet end of summer evening on the water – until he felt a strong tug on his line. “I knew it was a big one, just not how big. I got the fish up and close to the boat multiple times, but it would just take off pulling my drag. I had a smaller net than usual, so it took multiple tries (to get it into the boat). After about a 5-minute fight, the fish was landed.”
Officials say the fish was weighed at Taylored Tackle Shop in Seaford, and certified by DNR Fish and Wildlife Police Sgt. Nathan Evans.
The department says a full state record is available at the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s Delaware Fishing Records. More information about the Delaware Sport Fishing Tournament and state record fish can be found in the 2023 Delaware Fishing Guide and at de.gov/sportfish.