Vermont officials have confirmed a new state fishing record after an impressive catch during the 2025 season. A massive freshwater drum landed last summer has now been officially recognized as the largest ever recorded in the state.
Ten-year-old Grayson Carey of Colchester caught the 28.5-pound fish while fishing alongside family during the Lake Champlain International Father’s Day Derby. The drum measured 37½ inches long with a 29-inch girth, surpassing the previous state record, set in 2016, by three pounds.
Carey’s father, Jason Carey, explained that the catch was no fluke. Years of experience targeting drum during the annual derby helped make the moment possible. Freshwater drum, often referred to as sheepshead, are known for their size and strength, making them a rewarding species for anglers willing to pursue them.
The accomplishment also continues a family legacy. In 2018, Jason Carey set a derby record with a 24.97-pound freshwater drum, a mark that stood until his son surpassed it in 2025. The recent catch not only broke that derby record but also established a new statewide benchmark.
Grayson’s success extended beyond setting records. The fish earned top honors in the derby’s Extraordinary Category, secured a first-place team finish, and captured the Junior Warmwater Grand Prize. With additional bonus awards, the total prize winnings exceeded $26,000.
State fisheries biologists noted that the achievement highlights a growing interest in native species that have often been overlooked. Freshwater drum, along with species such as bowfin, gar, burbot, fallfish, and suckers, are gaining recognition as valuable sport fish. Increased attention to these species is helping reshape perceptions among anglers and encouraging more diverse fishing opportunities.
In addition to the record-setting drum, another notable catch was recorded in 2025. Carl Petri of Middlebury landed an 11.65-pound steelhead from Lake Champlain, the largest of its kind documented in that waterbody. The fish measured 29 inches long with an 18-inch girth.
Petri described the catch as a rare and memorable experience. Steelhead are known for their strength and acrobatic fights, making them a prized catch among anglers. While commonly associated with ocean migration on the West Coast, steelhead in large freshwater systems exhibit similar behavior by growing in open water before moving into tributary rivers to spawn.
Biologists explain that these fish are essentially rainbow trout that adopt a migratory lifestyle within large lakes. This behavior allows them to reach larger sizes and develop the powerful characteristics that make them so sought after. Both catches highlight the quality of fishing opportunities in Vermont and the potential for anglers to encounter trophy fish across a range of species.
Image/Source: vermontbiz
