Man reels in 120-pound paddlefish in Tennessee, sets new record

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — A man in East Tennessee has set a new record after catching a massive paddlefish last week.

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) reports the 120-pound paddlefish was caught by Chad Collins on Cherokee Lake. The fish measured approximately 75.5 inches long and 41.5 inches in girth.

Paddlefish in the Cherokee Reservoirare sought after for their meat as well as for the caviar they carry, but anglers also regard them for their incredible sporting opportunity to catch a 100-pound fish in freshwater, TWRA says.

Paddlefish can be seen jumping out of the water throughout the year, exposing their entire bodies. They can grow to over 100 pounds and can live up to around 60 years, making their population difficult to manage, according to TWRA. Little is known about the life cycle of Paddlefish in Cherokee Reservoir, due to their reclusive nature and difficulty in collecting.

Paddlefish are limited to 1 fish per day only from April 1-15 with no culling allowed. The season is closed outside of April 1-15 for the entire reservoir.