Newly Approved IGFA World Records

Alzarouni’s Milkfish

On March 10, 2026, while fishing the flats of Providence Island in the Seychelles, Saif Alzarouni landed this impressive 93-centimeter milkfish. With this fish, Saif has set the IGFA All-Tackle Length Fly World Record for the species. He was fishing with guide Angus Forsyth when this record milkfish struck his “milky dream” fly. He was able to boat the fish following an intense 25-minute fight. After recording the length on his official IGFA Measuring Device, Saif released the fish safely.

McCone’s Pacific Bluefin

Junior Angler Max McCone was fishing out of Westport, New Zealand, on January 28, 2026, when he landed this incredible 271.50-kilogram (598-pound, 6-ounce) Pacific bluefin tuna. With this fish, Max, age 16, has set the IGFA Junior Men’s 37-kg (80 lb) Line Class World Record for the species. The record tuna struck a trolled lure and was boated following a grueling five-and-a-half-hour fight. Max then returned to port for an official weight on a certified scale. 

Babich's Sharptooth Catfish

On March 6, 2026, Terrence Babich was fly fishing the Sandspruit River in South Africa when he hooked this impressive 135-centimeter sharptooth catfish. With this catch, Babich established the IGFA All-Tackle Length Fly World Record for the species. The record fish was caught on a Woolly Bugger pattern and brought to hand after a 15-minute battle. Babich then measured the catfish using an Official IGFA Measuring Device before releasing it safely back into the river.

Arostegui’s Smallmouth Buffalo