New State Record for Blue Catfish Confirmed

Angler Breaks Own Record Set in September 2022
Thursday, July 13, 2023 | 10:25am
Class: A Species: Blue Catfish Weight: 122 lbs., 3 oz. Waterbody: Barkley Reservoir Angler: Micka Burkhart Date: June 28, 2023

NASHVILLE --- The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has confirmed a new state record for a blue catfish caught by the same man who held the previous record set just last year. Micka Burkhart landed the huge fish on Barkley Reservoir in Stewart County. It hit the scales at 122 pounds, 3 ounces and was 57.5 inches in length with a girth of 42.5 inches.

Burkhart made the catch June 28. It was certified and the official record process was completed by the TWRA on July 11.

The new record surpasses the previous mark of a 118-pound catfish that Burkhart landed on Barkley Reservoir in September 2022.  Burkhart released both of his trophy catches.

---TWRA---

Photo caption:

Micka Burkhart with the state record blue catfish caught on Barkley Reservoir in Stewart County. He later released the trophy catch as he did his previous record holder. (photo submitted)