RICHMOND, Ohio-Jaylynn Parker’s capture of a 101.11-pound blue catfish from the Ohio River on April 17 has stirred some controversy despite being recognized as the largest ever caught in Ohio.
The fish replaced Chris Rolph’s 2009 record of a 96-pound blue cat. Both catches were identified through photographs rather than direct inspection by a wildlife biologist. Parker’s fish was caught using a bank line, while Rolph’s was caught with a rod and reel. While both methods are legal, some have called for differentiation in record categories. Despite the debate, Parker’s catch remains a remarkable achievement.