283lb IGFA All Tackle Record Alligator Gar, Caught on 6lb Line
How is this even possible?
In a stunning display of angling skill and determination, Art Weston has carved his name into the legendary status of fishing history. Recently, Weston achieved the extraordinary feat of breaking the International Game Fish Association's (IGFA) All-Tackle World Record with a colossal 283-pound alligator gar from Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Texas. What makes this accomplishment even more remarkable is that Weston accomplished this monumental feat using a spinning rod and 6lb fishing line, (attached to a 175lb steel leader), showcasing a true artistry of catching big fish on small line.
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Sam Rayburn, renowned for its massive alligator gar population, presented a formidable challenge to Weston. However, armed with a 6lb line, he embarked on an unforgettable journey. Fishing with alligator gar guide Kirk Kirkland, they both set out with the intention of chasing the record. Weston has multiple IGFA records already, and adding this record has been a goal for some time . After days of relentless effort, followed by an almost three hour battle when he finally hooked into the monster, Weston emerged victorious, hauling in the record-breaking 283-pound gar, using a chunk of carp for bait.
Weston's triumph not only highlights his exceptional angling skills but also serves as a lesson in responsible fishing. By adhering to catch-and-release practices, he ensured the continued conservation of the lake's delicate ecosystem.