3m Catfish Caught After 40-Minute Struggle... "Caught a Monster"

Catfish Mouth Size Larger Than Human Face
Breaks Current World Record by 4cm Difference

A giant catfish measuring 3 meters in length was caught in Italy, breaking the current world record.

According to overseas fishing media Angling Times on the 6th (local time), Alessandro Biancardi (44), a member of the European professional fishing team 'Madcat,' single-handedly caught a giant catfish measuring 285 cm in length in the Po River in Italy on the 31st of last month. In the released photos, the catfish's mouth is larger than a human face. Its body size is also bigger than most adults.

A giant catfish measuring 285 cm caught by Alessandro Biancardi (44).
[Photo by Biancardi Instagram]

After taking a few photos, Biancardi immediately released the catfish back into the water. Biancardi said, "I didn't even weigh it because I was worried this rare catfish might get stressed, and I safely released it," adding, "I hope the joy I received can be shared with other anglers."

Biancardi was able to catch the catfish after about 40 minutes of struggle. He described the situation, saying, "I was enjoying fishing as usual when suddenly I felt a strong bite unlike any other," and "From that moment, I realized I had caught a 'monster'." He added, "Adrenaline started to surge rapidly, and I felt I couldn't let it go."

Releasing catfish by Biancardi
Photo by Biancardi Instagram

The catfish caught by Biancardi this time broke the world record certified by the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). The previous world record was held by two German anglers who caught a 281 cm catfish in the Po River in April, but Biancardi's catch is 4 cm longer. Madcat stated, "Biancardi surprised the world," and "We are truly proud. He has written a new chapter in catfish fishing history."

A giant catfish measuring 285 cm caught by Alessandro Biancardi (44).
[Photo by Biancardi Instagram]

According to Madcat, Biancardi was born in Mantova, Italy, and started fishing at the age of 8, following his father. He began serious catfish fishing 23 years ago. Biancardi, who is an ordinary office worker in daily life, spends most of his leisure time fishing. His previous best record was catching a catfish measuring 264 cm in length and weighing 120 kg. He consistently shares fishing information and his experiences through social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.