A 95-pound catfish turned into a colossal feast after an Oklahoma fisherman recently reeled it in, making waves in the local fishing community. Bradly Courtright caught the enormous catfish while fishing in southeastern Oklahoma, according to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC).
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, the department shared details of the impressive catch. “Bradly Courtright caught this MASSIVE 95 pound flathead catfish in Pine Creek Reservoir on a trotline,” the post announced. “Bradly’s catch is the largest flathead ever caught in Pine Creek!”
The department added that the fish, caught using a trotline—a common method for catfishing—was almost 20 pounds heavier than the rod and reel record for Pine Creek, but fell 11 pounds short of the unrestricted division record set in 1977 in Wister Reservoir.
The Facebook post quickly garnered attention, with social media users expressing their amazement in the comments section. One user commented, “And that’s why I don’t swim in water I can’t see to the bottom! Congrats on a heck of a catch!” Another applauded, “That’s a big old fish… congratulations.”
Curious about the fate of the catfish, one user asked, “Was it released?” The ODWC responded with a humorous GIF captioned, “it was eaten.” This prompted further lighthearted comments. An Oklahoma resident joked, “[Released] in hot oil,” while another added, “Covered in cornmeal, most likely. Bet they had a great fish fry! yum.”
Fox News Digital reached out to the ODWC for additional comments but did not receive an immediate response.
This remarkable catch not only highlights the thrill of fishing in Oklahoma’s reservoirs but also showcases the communal spirit and humor of local anglers. Bradly Courtright’s 95-pound flathead catfish is sure to be remembered as one of Pine Creek Reservoir’s most legendary catches, and it certainly provided a memorable meal for those lucky enough to partake in the ensuing fish fry.
Bradly Courtright caught this MASSIVE 95 lb flathead catfish in Pine Creek Reservoir on a trotline. This is the largest flathead ever caught in Pine Creek. This fish is almost 20 lbs larger than the Rod and reel record but 11 lbs short of the unrestricted division record – which… pic.twitter.com/NcHTjTXgUi
— Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (@OKWildlifeDept) May 28, 2024
