Dylan Kampnich (left), of Dexter, New York caught and released this record-setting 37-pound, 9-ounce channel catfish in Lake Ontario’s Black River Bay marsh. The best part of the experience was having his best fishing buddy and son, Kaden (right), at his side when he reeled it in, said Kampnich. (credit: courtesy of Dylan Kampnich)
New York Has a New State-Record Channel Cat
Source: NY Dept. of Environmental Conservation
A routine father-son fishing trip turned legendary on May 3 when Dylan Kampnich of Dexter, New York reeled in a massive 37-pound, 9-ounce channel catfish from Lake Ontario’s Black River Bay in Jefferson County. The monster catch shattered the previous New York state record—set in 2022 in the same river—by nearly two pounds.
“We are so fortunate to have incredibly diverse and affordable fishing opportunities across the state,” said DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Congratulations to Mr. Kampnich on his record-breaking catfish. This catch is a great example of what New York’s abundant waterways have to offer, and the thrilling news will certainly get anglers excited about the season ahead.”
Kampnich reported his catch through the DEC’s revamped Angler Achievement Awards Program, which recognizes anglers who catch any of 40 eligible species that meet specific size thresholds. The program now features a user-friendly online entry system accessible by smartphone. Anglers can earn awards in three categories: Angler Award, Youth Angler Award and State Record. Winners receive official recognition and a species-specific sticker to commemorate their achievement.
The program supports Governor Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, which encourages families to enjoy outdoor activities that benefit physical and mental health. Anglers can also explore the “Tackle Box” feature in the DEC’s HuntFishNY app—a one-stop-shop for fishing access points, regulations, stocking info and more.
With catches like this, it’s clear that New York’s public waters are full of surprises. Who knows? The next record might be yours.
