9-year-old angler Tyler Kross was fishing a pond in Southbury, Connecticut on May 20, 2023, when he landed a 16.58-kilogram (36-pound, 9-ounce) common carp. With this fish, Tyler set the IGFA Men’s Smallfry World Record for the species. Tyler bested the potential record carp after an 8-minute fight. After recording the weight and proper measurements, Tyler was able to release the fish safely. Raising the bar (and the rod) - follow the IGFA for more young anglers making waves. (fb)

🎣𝘏𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦! Eight-year-old Ella Smith recently caught and released her very first blue marlin—all by herself! When the crew asked if she wanted to hand over the rod, she had one answer: “NO!” The IGFA is proud to recognize Ella’s incredible accomplishment with an official IGFA Catch Certificate. Big thanks to the crew of the "Tackle Box" (Cody Moist, Jake Damiani, and Stephen Fitzpatrick) for supporting her on this unforgettable day offshore. Congrats, Ella—and welcome to the marlin club! 📸: Ella and her dad, Trey Smith, with the crew aboard the "Tackle Box" Every great angler starts somewhere. Follow the IGFA to watch the next generation rise. (fb)