News Summary
Warren Poirier from Virginia has set a North Carolina state record by catching a 56-pound, 4.8-ounce Almaco Jack. This record-breaking fish was caught off the Outer Banks while fishing at ‘The Rocks.’ The catch surpassed the previous state record by over 22 pounds. Poirier battled with the fish for about 45 minutes using light tackle, showcasing skill and determination. His achievement not only highlights personal success but also emphasizes the rich fishing opportunities available in North Carolina.
Oregon Inlet, North Carolina – Warren Poirier, a resident of Charles City, Virginia, has set a new North Carolina state record after catching a remarkable 56-pound, 4.8-ounce Almaco Jack on June 7. The hefty catch was made while Poirier was fishing off the Outer Banks, breaking the previous state record for Almaco Jack of 33 pounds, 12.6 ounces, which had stood since 2024.
Poirier’s record-breaking Almaco Jack measured an impressive 46 inches in length, stretching from the tip of its nose to the fork of its tail, and had a girth of 31 inches. He was fishing at “The Rocks,” a popular location near the jetties at Oregon Inlet, under the guidance of fishing captain James Bowman. The battle to reel in the fish lasted about 45 minutes, a challenging endeavor made more difficult by Poirier’s choice of light tackle, which put him at risk of losing all the line off his reel.
Equipped with a Shimano Trevala rod and a Saltist 5000 reel with 80-pound braided line, Poirier had expressed a desire to catch a large Almaco Jack to mount as a trophy prior to the fishing trip. Upon successfully reeling in the fish, he drew the astonishment and admiration of fellow captains at the marina, who were impressed by the size of the fish.
The Almaco Jack, known for being a deep-water species, can grow to a maximum length of just over 5 feet and can weigh up to 136 pounds. These fish are typically found in the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of America, and the Pacific Islands, although occasional migrations can occur as far north as Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Poirier’s catch was certified by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Marine Fisheries, ensuring that it met all requirements for the new state record. This achievement not only highlights Poirier’s fishing prowess but also emphasizes the thriving fishing opportunities that the Outer Banks region offers to anglers.
The previous record for Almaco Jack was set just a year prior, in 2024, and Poirier’s new record showcases the potential for catching large fish in North Carolina waters. Angling enthusiasts and conservationists alike view such records as significant milestones in both recreational fishing and the understanding of fish populations and habitats within the state.
The excitement surrounding Poirier’s catch serves as inspiration for both seasoned and novice fishermen, inviting them to explore the rich marine biodiversity found in North Carolina. As fishing season continues, many are hopeful that more record-breaking catches will emerge from these vibrant waters.
Poirier’s achievement reflects not only individual success but also the collective passion of the fishing community in North Carolina. With ongoing developments in fishing techniques and conservation practices, the prospect of further record catches remains promising for future anglers.
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Additional Resources
- Pilot Online
- WCTI 12
- Fox News
- News Observer
- Wired2Fish
- Wikipedia: Almaco Jack
- Google Search: Almaco Jack fishing North Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Almaco Jack
- Google News: Almaco Jack North Carolina record
- Carolina Sportsman
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.
