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ČESKÝ KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC – A Czech angler, Jakub Vagner, has landed a colossal Wels catfish measuring 2.68 meters (8 feet 9 inches) in length, possibly establishing a new catch-and-release record for the country. The remarkable catch occurred on August 27, 2025, in the Vltava River near Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World heritage site in South Bohemia.
Vagner, a 35-year-old fisherman from České Budějovice, spent over an hour battling the massive fish before successfully bringing it aboard his boat. He utilized a specialized fishing technique known as “big game fishing,” employing a robust rod, reel, and line capable of handling such immense weight. The catfish is estimated to have weighed approximately 135 kilograms (297 pounds).
Following careful measurement and documentation, Vagner released the catfish back into the Vltava River, adhering to catch-and-release principles aimed at conserving the species. The Czech Angling Union is currently reviewing the evidence – including photographs, measurements, and witness statements – to officially validate the record.
The Wels catfish (silurus glanis) is one of the largest freshwater fish in Europe, known for its extraordinary size and strength.native to the Danube, Rhine, and Dnieper river basins, it has been introduced to other European waterways, including the Vltava. These fish are opportunistic predators, feeding on a variety of prey including other fish, crustaceans, and amphibians.
The Vltava River, stretching 430 kilometers (267 miles) across the czech Republic, is a popular destination for anglers. It supports a diverse fish population, including common carp, pike, perch, and various species of trout. The river’s ecosystem is carefully managed to ensure enduring fishing practices.
While previous Wels catfish catches in the Czech Republic have approached similar lengths, Vagner’s specimen is believed to be the longest officially recorded catch-and-release Wels catfish in the nation’s history. The current official Czech record for a Wels catfish, verified by the Czech Angling Union, stands at 2.47 meters (8 feet 1 inch), caught in 2018. The incident has sparked considerable excitement within the Czech angling community and highlights the Vltava River’s potential for producing extraordinary catches.
