NJ Freshwater Striped Bass Record Stands firm after Two Decades

Phil Stilton

Fisherman John Christian made history on the shores of the Great Egg Harbor River when he reeled in a colossal striped bass, setting a record that would remain unchallenged for over two decades.

On that memorable day in 2002, Christian, armed with a 25-pound test line and live herring as bait, successfully captured a bass that tipped the scales at a remarkable 51 pounds.

The extraordinary catch not only exceeded the previous record but also surpassed it by a staggering 14 pounds and 8 ounces. The previous record had been established in 2001 from the Delaware River. Christian’s achievement marked a significant leap forward in the world of New Jersey fishing, leaving anglers and enthusiasts in awe of the remarkable size of the striped bass he had encountered.

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Measuring an impressive 48 inches in length, with a girth of 28½ inches, this monumental striped bass not only showcased its weight but also displayed its extraordinary dimensions. Christian’s success was a result of his skilled angling techniques and the meticulous choice of bait that enticed such a majestic catch.


For the past 21 years, this record-breaking striped bass has stood.


As the years rolled by, many anglers have strived to surpass Christian’s monumental record, but all attempts have fallen short.

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