Angler Catches Record-Breaking 113.7-Pound Flathead Catfish in South Carolina
A remarkable fishing story recently unfolded on South Carolina's Great Pee Dee River, where local angler Joe Driggers achieved what many considered unimaginable. His exceptional catch of a flathead catfish weighing an astounding 113.7 pounds is set to redefine the state's fishing records, surpassing the previous benchmark by a significant margin. This event not only celebrates an angler's dedication but also brings to light the incredible aquatic biodiversity thriving in the region's rivers.
Extraordinary Catch on the Great Pee Dee River
In a thrilling turn of events, Joe Driggers, accompanied by his brothers Sam and Judd, embarked on a fishing expedition on the familiar waters of the Great Pee Dee River near Florence, South Carolina. Having spent countless hours navigating these waters, Driggers was no stranger to catching catfish, but nothing could have prepared him for the behemoth that would soon test his skill and tackle. Anchored near a sandbar adjacent to a deep eddy and a log jam, the trio employed heavy-duty baitcasting gear, spooled with 50-pound test line, and baited with half bream. Fishing in approximately 30 feet of water, a technique known as the "Santee catfish rig" positioned the bait just off the bottom, above a 5-ounce pancake weight.
The tranquility of their morning was shattered when a rod dramatically bent, signaling a powerful strike. The fish initially pulled hard downstream, then surprisingly shifted direction, moving upstream while staying deep. Driggers, a police sergeant by profession, meticulously worked to retrieve his catch, battling what he initially thought was a blue cat due to its initial vigor. However, as the fight continued and the fish's intensity waned, he realized this was an encounter unlike any other. When the colossal creature finally surfaced, rolling on its side near the boat, Driggers' exclamation, "Oh, that's a good fish!" was a profound understatement. Unable to net the immense fish, Joe skillfully grabbed its head with both hands, pulling the giant into their boat.
Realizing the magnitude of their catch, the brothers sought out a certified scale. Their journey led them to Johnsonville, where a preliminary weigh-in on an old cotton bale scale registered 113 pounds. To secure an official measurement, Driggers contacted the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR). A drive to Georgetown Landing Marina ensued, where DNR biologists officially confirmed the flathead catfish's weight at 113.7 pounds. The fish measured an astonishing 59 inches in length with a girth of 43 inches. This monumental catch is expected to easily eclipse the prior state record of 84 pounds, 9.6 ounces, set in 2018. Despite efforts to release the fish alive, the lengthy process of official weighing and biological sampling regrettably proved too much for its survival. Biologists collected samples, including otoliths for aging, before the Driggers family prepared the famous table fare, planning a celebratory meal with loved ones.
This remarkable catch by Joe Driggers is a testament to the unexpected treasures that lie within our natural waterways. It serves as a compelling reminder of the thrill of the chase and the profound connection between anglers and the environment they explore. More importantly, it highlights the rich and often underestimated ecosystems of rivers like the Great Pee Dee, urging continued conservation efforts to protect these magnificent species for future generations. For many, this story will undoubtedly inspire new adventures and renewed appreciation for the wonders lurking beneath the surface.