A new state record for bowfin, a fish often described as a “living fossil,” was set last month when Frank Hubert Jr. caught a massive specimen in Mantua Creek, a tributary of the Delaware River in New Jersey. Hubert, a Wilmington, Delaware resident, is a frequent visitor to New Jersey’s freshwater fisheries, particularly to pursue bowfin. This ancient fish species is the only surviving member of a primitive family, earning it its prehistoric nickname.
Commonly known as mudfish, bowfin are unique in their ability to breathe both air and water. They are voracious predators, feeding on a variety of prey, including frogs, small fish, and insects.
The Record Catch
On December 17, 2024, Hubert launched his kayak into Mantua Creek on a particularly warm day for winter, with temperatures in the upper 50s. Believing the weather conditions would make the fish more active, he targeted shallow waters about two feet deep. His lure of choice was the Snakehead Outlawz Dragon Destroyer, crafted by his nephew Jesse James (unrelated to the infamous outlaw).
Hubert’s gamble paid off when he hooked a bowfin weighing 12 pounds, 10 ounces. This impressive catch surpassed the previous record of 11 pounds, 8.5 ounces, which had been held since 2017 by an 8-year-old angler named Pierce Dopkin, who also caught his fish in Mantua Creek.
After being officially weighed and certified by a biologist with the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife, Hubert’s catch was entered into the New Jersey State Record Fish Program.
Winter Fishing in Full Swing
While Hubert’s bowfin story stole the spotlight, winter fishing continues to provide opportunities for anglers across New Jersey. Despite blustery conditions earlier in the week, with gale-force winds grounding most boats, calmer weather was expected to return by Friday, allowing more fishing trips to resume.
- Offshore Porgy and Blackfish Trips: The Jamaica is scheduled for an offshore porgy trip late Friday night, with plans to fish wrecks about 50 miles offshore. Anglers might also encounter cod and pollock in waters ranging from 140 to 180 feet deep.
- Blackfish Action: Capt. Bobby Quinn of the Ocean Explorer reported solid blackfish activity on Monday, with several keepers landed. He plans to run more trips over the weekend.
- Ling Fishing: The Miss Belmar has lined up special “magic hour” trips for ling on Saturday and Sunday, running from 3 to 9 p.m.
Ice Conditions Update
Inland, cold temperatures have led to ice formation on parts of Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake. Joe at Dow’s Boat Rentals reported four inches of ice in the southwest corner near the state park and in the northern section at Woodport. However, strong winds have kept the main body of the lake open. Anglers venturing onto the ice are advised to check conditions carefully and prioritize safety.
Whether it’s record-breaking bowfin in tidal creeks or blackfish offshore, winter fishing in New Jersey continues to offer excitement for dedicated anglers. With improving weather conditions, both saltwater and freshwater enthusiasts can look forward to productive outings in the days ahead.
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