A Pasadena angler has etched his name in Maryland's fishing record books with a mammoth blueline tilefish catch off the coast of Ocean City.
London J. Anthony landed a 20.6-pound, 37.25-inch blueline tilefish on August 24, setting a new state record in the Atlantic division, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
Anthony's prize catch came during a deep-sea fishing expedition in Poorman's Canyon. Using a hand-cranked conventional reel and cut ballyhoo chunk bait, he hooked the record-breaking fish after a slow morning of trolling.
"We had a long morning trolling with no bites," Anthony said. "Later in the day, Captain Chris Little of Talking Trash Charters pulled a rabbit out of his hat and put us all on a pile of tilefish."
The massive tilefish didn't come easily. Anthony described the experience as "reeling in three cinder blocks," made even more challenging when he realized he had hooked a second fish simultaneously. For tips on reeling in big fish, anglers can refer to expert advice.
Officials verified the catch's weight at Crabs to Go in Berlin, with species confirmation provided by Maryland Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission chair Scott Lenox and DNR recreational fisheries coordinator Erik Zlokovitz.
Blueline tilefish are deep-water dwellers, typically found 240-780 feet below the surface from New Jersey to Mexico's Campeche Banks. They prefer irregular bottom habitats with sand, mud, and shell hash, often sharing space with groupers and snappers.
Anthony's catch surpassed the previous state record of 20.0 pounds, set by Robert Purcell in 2012 at Norfolk Canyon. This achievement highlights the importance of proper fish identification in record-keeping.
The DNR maintains state records for sport fish across four divisions: Atlantic, Chesapeake, Nontidal, and Invasive. Anglers who believe they've landed a record-breaking fish are encouraged to complete a state record application and contact the department for verification.
For those inspired by Anthony's catch and looking to try their luck, the DNR recommends properly preserving potential record catches in ice water until they can be officially checked and certified. Learn more about safely storing your catch to maintain its quality.
MOST READ NEWS:
Five-Year-Old Angler Lands Potential New York State Fishing Record
Five-year-old Gregory Martin may have set a new New York state fishing record with a 1-pound-15-ounce pumpkinseed fish caught on Oneida Lake.
Officials Urge Consumption of Invasive Blue Catfish to Protect Chesapeake Bay
Maryland officials promote eating invasive blue catfish to protect Chesapeake Bay's ecosystem. Learn how this tasty solution aims to restore balance and support local fisheries.
Yellowstone Reopens Madison and Gibbon Rivers for Fishing, Firehole River Partially Open
Yellowstone reopens Madison and Gibbon rivers for fishing, with Firehole River under hoot-owl restrictions. Stay updated on park fishing conditions.
Maryland Angler Reels in Record-Breaking Blueline Tilefish
Maryland angler London J. Anthony sets new state record with 20.6-pound blueline tilefish caught off Ocean City, breaking previous 12-year-old record.
Fishing Buddies Break West Virginia Black Crappie Records Within Hours
Two West Virginia anglers break state records for black crappie within hours at Woodrum Lake, showcasing the state's exceptional fishing opportunities.
California Free Fishing Day: Cast Your Line on August 31
California Free Fishing Day on August 31 offers anglers a chance to fish without a license. Enjoy the state's waters and maybe catch your next big fish!
PFAS in Seafood: New Study Alerts Gulf of Maine Anglers and Consumers
New study reveals PFAS in seafood from the Gulf of Maine, raising health concerns. Learn about the risks, affected species, and tips for safe consumption of local seafood.
Don't Get Caught Without One: Texas Fishing License Renewal Deadline Approaching Fast
Texas fishing license renewal deadline looms. Learn about digital options, exemptions, and why you need to act now to keep enjoying Texas waters.
New York Adds August 31 to Free Fishing Days
New York State has expanded its Free Fishing Days program, adding August 31 to the list of dates when anglers can cast their lines without a license. This move aims to encourage more people to experience the joys of fishing in the state's diverse waterways.