Examination of the World Record Flathead Catfish Captured from Elk City Reservoir, Kansas, in May, 1998

Abstract

In 1998, a 123-pound flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) was captured by a recreational angler from Elk City Reservoir, Montgomery County, Kansas. This fish was recognized as the all-tackle world record, and the record has persisted through the time this article was published in fall, 2016. The fish was frozen after capture until it was presented to Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism in 2016 for further examination. It was concluded that the fish was at least 22 years old, grew rapidly, was most likely male, and had recently consumed a bigmouth buffalo (Ictiobus cyprinellus). Results presented herein provide evidence of rapid growth possible in flathead catfish and help to foster a greater understanding of the species' natural history.