Missouri Angler Sets New State and World Records with Massive Bighead Carp Catch

George Chance, a Festus, Missouri resident, has made history by catching a colossal 97-pound bighead carp from the Mississippi River, setting new state and world records. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) confirmed that Chance's catch, which occurred on March 19 while he was bank fishing for catfish with a bottom-bouncing crankbait, has surpassed the previous state pole-and-line record of an 80-pound carp caught from the Lake of the Ozarks in 2004.

The Battle

During the 20-minute battle with the fish, Chance initially thought he had hooked a flathead catfish due to its slow movement. However, as the fight continued, he noticed the fish's tail and realized it was a type of carp. Using a hay hook, Chance successfully landed the massive fish on the shore, estimating its weight to be at least 50 or 60 pounds.

Record Confirmation

To obtain an accurate weight, Chance took the carp to a nearby recycling center and used their scale. Astonished by the results, he contacted his local conservation agent, who informed him that he had not only broken the state record but also set a new world record for bighead carp caught using pole-and-line methods. The previous world record was a 90-pound bighead carp.

Invasive Species

Chance's record-breaking catch marks the third state record fish recorded in Missouri for 2024. He noted that the carp was full of eggs and would have likely spawned in the spring. As bighead carp are an invasive species from Asia, the MDC encourages anglers to harvest them to help control their population in Missouri waters.

From River to Garden

In a creative twist, Chance decided to chop up the fish and use it as fertilizer in his garden, stating, "I'm going to eat it in the form of tomatoes and cucumbers." This unconventional use of the invasive species highlights the importance of managing their numbers in local waterways.

Missouri State Record Fish Categories

Missouri recognizes state record fish in two categories: pole-and-line and alternative methods, which include various fishing techniques such as trotline, bow, and spearfishing.