News Summary
A new state record for almaco jack has been established in North Carolina, with a fish weighing 56 pounds, 4.8 ounces caught by angler Warren Poirier. The impressive catch surpasses the previous record and showcases the vibrant sport fishing opportunities available in the Outer Banks region. Poirier, fishing with Captain James Bowman, battled for 45 minutes to reel in the remarkable fish, reinforcing North Carolina’s reputation for exceptional marine life.
Hatteras, North Carolina – A new state record for almaco jack has been set in North Carolina, as announced by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Marine Fisheries on June 27, 2025. The record-breaking fish weighed an impressive 56 pounds, 4.8 ounces, eclipsing the previous record held since 2024.
The almaco jack was caught by Warren Poirier from Charles City, Virginia, during a fishing trip off the Outer Banks on June 7, 2025. This catch marks a significant milestone in the realm of sport fishing in the state, highlighting the potential for anglers to achieve remarkable feats in North Carolina’s rich marine environment.
The previous state record for almaco jack was 33 pounds, 12.6 ounces, showcasing the extraordinary nature of Poirier’s catch. In the pursuit of this remarkable fish, Poirier was accompanied by Captain James Bowman while fishing at a location referred to as The Rocks, a known hotspot for catching various species of fish. The almaco jack was successfully hooked using a Zest brand jig, a popular choice among sport fishermen.
Poirier engaged in a challenging 45-minute battle to land the fish, a testament to the skill and endurance required in sport fishing. The gear he used, which is essential for handling such large catches, included a Shimano Trevala rod paired with a Saltist 5000 reel, featuring an 80-pound braided line. The dimensions of the almaco jack were notable, measuring 46 inches in fork length — which is the distance from the tip of the nose to the fork in the tail — and sporting a girth of 31 inches.
Upon landing the fish, Poirier brought it to Teach’s Lair Marina in Hatteras for weighing, where it was confirmed as the new state record. The process of validating state records aims to ensure the credibility of catches and give anglers recognition for their achievements. Anglers interested in the details of state record fish can refer to the Division’s State Saltwater Records webpage or reach out to the North Carolina Saltwater Fishing Tournament staff for further information.
Catch records play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable fishing practices and preserving marine biodiversity. Species like the almaco jack are monitored closely to ensure their populations remain healthy and that anglers continue to have opportunities for remarkable catches in the state’s waters. This record not only provides inspiration for both novice and experienced anglers but also shines a light on the ecological value of maintaining fish populations.
The Outer Banks region has become increasingly popular among fishing enthusiasts, thanks to its diverse marine life and scenic backdrop. This recent record-breaking event serves as a reminder of the natural resources available and the thriving community of fishers dedicated to enjoying and preserving the sport.
As the news of this record spreads, it is expected to encourage more fishing activity in the area, as anglers seek to replicate Poirier’s achievement or possibly break it in future outings. The excitement surrounding such significant catches fosters a deeper appreciation for North Carolina’s coastal waters and the rich recreational opportunities they provide.
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Additional Resources
- The Coastland Times: Almaco Jack Record
- Wikipedia: Almaco Jack
- WCTI 12: Almaco Jack Record Breaking News
- Google Search: Almaco Jack Fishing
- Carolina Sportsman: New State Record White Perch
- Google Scholar: Sport Fishing North Carolina
- Outdoor Life: World Record Yellowfin Tuna
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fishing
- The Coastland Times: Mom’s Sweet Shop
- Google News: North Carolina Fishing Records
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
