Kimberly Feltner proudly displays the blue cat that set a new length
record for the species in West Virginia. (courtesy of WVDNR)
Giant Blue Cat Sets New Record
Source: West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
Indiana angler Kimberly Feltner subdued the big cat.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has reported that a blue catfish reeled in by an Indiana angler on the Ohio River in September was the Mountain State’s ninth record catch of the year.
“With record-breaking catch after record-breaking catch, it’s no surprise that West Virginia’s world-class fishing continues to attract anglers from all over,” said West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice. “I want to congratulate Kimberly Feltner on this amazing catch. It’s yet another example of why folks love coming to West Virginia to fish.”
Kimberly Feltner of Madison, Indiana caught the 50.82-inch, 64.15-pound blue catfish in the R.C. Byrd Pool on the Ohio River using cut mooneye bait. She was accompanied by local fishing guide Chris Souders. WVDNR Apple Grove Hatchery Manager Ryan Bosserman certified the record-breaking catch. Feltner’s catch surpasses the previous length record of 50.7 inches set by Steven Price in 2022. The weight record (69.45 pounds) is still held by Michael John Drake of St. Albans, W.Va.
“Anglers have broken West Virginia’s blue catfish record multiple times over the last few years, which is a testament to the successful management efforts we’ve implemented,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “We’re excited to see what other records might be broken as resident and non-resident anglers continue to hear about our waters consistently producing trophy fish.”
