A 13-year-old girl off the coast of Nova Scotia has set a new world record in tuna fishing. Délynn Jacquard reeled in a 711-pound catch during the Wedgeport Tuna Tournament and Festival, potentially securing an International Game Fish Association female junior world record. Jacquard surpassed the previous record of 618 pounds set by Jenna Gavin 12 years ago.
Speaking about her achievement, Jacquard expressed initial doubts but ultimately felt proud of herself for accomplishing the feat. It took her just over an hour to reel in the massive tuna, describing the process as physically demanding.
Délynn Jacquard’s father, Camille Jacquard, who captains the Pelagic Predator, has been participating in the tournament for around 20 years. This year marked Délynn’s first experience in big-game fishing, and she remains uncertain about returning for the next tournament.
Brandon Doucette, a tournament board member, mentioned that it could take up to six months for the record to be officially confirmed. He highlighted that the Wedgeport tournament weighs fish differently than the IGFA, with Jacquard’s tuna weighing 711 pounds fresh and 635 pounds after partial gutting.
In addition to Jacquard’s record, another vessel in the tournament made history by catching an 801-pound bluefin tuna, the heaviest in the tournament’s 22-year history. Capt. Brent Pothier aboard the Lucas & Noah achieved this milestone, marking a significant moment for the event.
Doucette emphasized the historical significance of the tournament, noting Wedgeport’s rich angling history dating back to the mid-20th century. He highlighted the community’s enthusiasm for the annual event, which not only celebrates fishing but also local culture and heritage.
All catches during the tournament fell within the region’s commercial quota, ensuring that the thousands of pounds of tuna caught will be utilized either in restaurants or households.
