Mississippi Angler Sets New Record with Bright Red Fish Caught Using Electric Reel
Mississippi angler Joseph Hoang sets record with giant vermilion snapper catch this May, showcasing the state's thriving fishing scene.
A Mississippi fisherman has set a new benchmark in the state’s angling history by landing a remarkable vermilion snapper using an electric reel. Joseph Hoang of Biloxi accomplished the impressive feat earlier this month, earning official recognition from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR).
The MDMR announced that this catch is now the certified all-tackle state saltwater fish record for May. Weighing in at 6 pounds and 9.6 ounces, the vermilion snapper surpassed previous records and highlighted the growing popularity of deep-sea fishing in the Magnolia State. These fish are highly prized by anglers for their distinctive slender shape and brilliant red coloration.
Vermilion snappers are native to a vast range extending from North Carolina down through Brazil, including key regions such as the West Indies, the Gulf of America, and the Caribbean Sea. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), these fish can reach lengths of up to two feet and weigh as much as seven pounds, making Hoang’s catch a true example of what the species can offer.
The record comes as Mississippi’s red snapper season kicked off on May 23. Local regulations now permit anglers to harvest two red snappers per day, provided the fish meet a minimum size requirement of 16 inches. The opening of the season often brings a surge of activity to the state’s coastal waters, with fishermen eager for a chance at prized catches like Hoang’s.
While the excitement over saltwater records grows, freshwater fishing remains a cherished tradition across Mississippi. The largemouth bass holds the distinction of being the state’s official fish and is widely regarded as the most common species found in Mississippi’s lakes and rivers. Some specimens tip the scales at more than 10 to 15 pounds and may stretch longer than 26 inches, offering challenges and rewards for anglers throughout the region.
This latest record highlights the enduring appeal of recreational fishing in Mississippi, drawing both local enthusiasts and visitors hoping to make their own mark in the state’s storied angling history.
