Man Wins Epic Battle Against Giant Catfish the Size of a Cow
Fundacion Rapala – A fisherman in the Czech Republic has broken his own record after catching a giant catfish measuring 2.68 meters (8.8 feet)—almost the size of a cow. A Morning That Turned Into a Fight Jakub Vágner, 43, spotted the massive fish early in the morning at Vranov Reservoir, about 200 km south of Prague.
Innovative Catch‑and‑Release Tools: Reducing Mortality through Design
Fundacion Rapala – Catch‑and‑Release fishing is often promoted as a sustainable practice, especially among conservation-focused anglers. However, improper tools and techniques can still cause significant stress and even death to the fish. Thankfully, modern innovations in catch-and-release gear have introduced new ways to improve fish survival rates while preserving the thrill of the sport. Barbless Hooks: A
Spillover Effects from MPAs to Recreational Fisheries
Fundacion Rapala – Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are known for preserving ocean life. But beyond protection, they offer something more: spillover effects. These benefits reach nearby fishing areas, especially recreational fisheries, making MPAs valuable for both conservation and the economy. How Spillover Supports Nearby Fishing Zones Spillover happens when fish populations grow inside MPAs and then move
Flooding isn’t a Problem: Jakarta Residents Fish for Giant Catfish
Fundacion Rapala – Flooding hit parts of Jakarta again, but one local resident turned the situation into something unexpected. Instead of panicking, a man took out his fishing rod and managed to catch a giant catfish right on the street. The viral moment, captured in a short video, showcases the unique way Jakartans cope with floods. The
148-Pound Opah Hooked Off South Florida Waters
Fundacion Rapala – On June 15, Father’s Day turned extraordinary for a group of anglers off Fort Lauderdale, Florida. While deep-sea fishing for swordfish, they landed an incredibly rare 148-pound opah, also known as a moonfish. The team caught it at a depth of 1,800 feet, about 17 miles offshore near Port Everglades. The opah stretched
Senegal Caught Between Economy and Environment Over Fishmeal
Fundacion Rapala -Senegal finds itself at the center of a growing environmental and economic controversy. The rapid expansion of the fishmeal industry has sparked heated debate across the country. On one hand, it provides jobs and export revenue. On the other, it threatens marine ecosystems and traditional fishing communities. As a result, this tension is
Cast and Calm: Fly Fishing the Rivers of the Catskills
Fundacion Rapala – Fly fishing has long been considered both an art and a meditation. Nowhere is that truer than in the Catskills region of New York. Known as the birthplace of American fly fishing, the Catskills offer anglers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and challenging waters. Rivers like the Beaverkill, Willowemoc, and Esopus
Local Markets Flooded with Fresh Sardines and Trevally
Fundacion Rapala – Local seafood markets are currently experiencing a surge in supply, especially of sardines and trevally. Fishermen from coastal regions have reported record hauls over the past week. This unexpected abundance has caused prices to dip, leading to increased public interest and demand. Vendors are now adjusting their storage and sales strategies to
Italian Clam Industry Faces Crisis as Invasive Species Multiply
Fundacion Rapala – The Italian clam industry is now facing a growing crisis. Over the past few years, invasive species have increasingly disrupted the delicate balance of Italy’s coastal ecosystems. As a result, clam harvesters are reporting dramatic reductions in yield. Once a pillar of Italy’s seafood exports, clam farming now stands at a crossroads.
Japan Struggles to Balance Tuna Industry Growth and Protection
Fundacion Rapala – Japan’s tuna industry stands as one of the most important economic sectors in the country. However, the nation faces a critical challenge: balancing industry growth with marine ecosystem protection. Overfishing threatens tuna populations, and environmental groups increasingly demand stricter regulations. Therefore, policymakers and fishermen must find solutions that sustain both the economy