21-Year-Old Angler Smashes 43-Year Georgia Fishing Record

Lauren Harden, a 21-year-old resident of St. Mary's, Georgia, has shattered a nearly half-century-old saltwater fishing record in the state.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources announced on June 5 that Harden had caught a crevalle jack weighing an impressive 33 pounds, 10.72 ounces on May 24 while fishing off Cumberland Island, the state's largest and southernmost barrier island.

The previous record for catching a crevalle jack in Georgia was set by Ann Allen in 1981, with a fish weighing 30 pounds and 6 ounces.

Harden's catch not only surpassed Allen's long-standing record but also showcased the strength and fighting spirit of these silvery fish, which are known to inhabit open waters over the continental shelf.

According to the Georgia Aquarium, crevalle jack can grow up to 70 pounds and are recognized for their steep foreheads and unique vocalizations when caught by anglers.

The current male record in Georgia is held by Lex Bazemore, who caught a 38-pound, 8-ounce crevalle jack in August 2001.

Tyler Jones, the public information officer for the Department of Natural Resources' Coastal Resources Division, congratulated Harden on her extraordinary achievement, emphasizing that such records inspire fellow anglers and highlight the thriving marine life in Georgia's coastal waters.