Adirondack Angler’s Behemoth Brook Trout Sets New State Record
In the heart of the Adirondack backcountry, Ben Ferguson of Lowville reeled in a monster brook trout that has shattered the New York state record. Caught on July 5 in the St. Regis Canoe Area, the massive fish measured 22 inches and weighed six pounds, three ounces, edging out the previous record set in 2013 by three ounces.
Ferguson, an avid angler, and his buddy Shawn Widrick embarked on a weekend fishing expedition, trekking into the remote wilderness with their gear, including lightweight carbon fiber canoes. After a long day of fishing with minimal bites, Ferguson’s luck changed when he hooked the giant brook trout while slow trolling a spinning rod baited with a Lake Clear Wabbler spoon and a nightcrawler.
The intense battle lasted five minutes, with the fish putting up a fierce fight, peeling off drag as it ran back and forth under the canoe. Ferguson’s excitement grew as he landed the fish, barely fitting it into his net. To keep the fish fresh, Ferguson and Widrick created a makeshift livewell in Widrick’s canoe, keeping it alive until they could weigh it at a butcher shop the next morning.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation confirmed the record-breaking catch, and biologists verified that the fish was a pure brook trout, not a hybrid. Ferguson’s dedication to backcountry fishing and his willingness to venture into the wilderness paid off, earning him a spot in the record books.
Fishing Tips and Insights:
- Target remote Adirondack lakes and ponds for a chance to catch trophy brook trout.
- Use Lake Clear Wabbler spoons and nightcrawlers for effective bait.
- Be prepared for long treks and unpredictable fishing conditions in the backcountry.
Plan Your Adirondack Fishing Adventure:
- Explore the St. Regis Canoe Area and its many lakes and ponds.
- Pack lightweight gear, including carbon fiber canoes, for easy portaging.
- Book a guided tour or research local fishing spots for a successful trip.
Get ready to reel in the adventure of a lifetime in the Adirondacks!
Image/Source: syracuse
