Biggest Freshwater Fish You Can Catch in the US

Top Ten

Biggest Fish You Can Catch in the US

These are the giants that live in US freshwater.

You don’t need to travel the world to chase freshwater giants—some of the biggest fish on the planet swim right here in the United States. This list highlights the largest freshwater species anglers can realistically target across US rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. From prehistoric fish like sturgeon and gar to massive catfish and apex predators, these are the fish that define American big-water fishing. If you’re chasing size, power, and a true trophy without leaving the country, this is where it starts.

Flathead Catfish

Species Guide Coming Soon

World Record —

Signature Fact More details coming soon.

Lake Sturgeon

Learn More Here Verified Catch

World Record 310 lb 0 oz
Albert A. Wigen / 1953
Lake of the Woods, Ontario

Signature Fact Females can live past 100 and may spawn only every 4-9 years-your PB might be a century-old grandma.

Paddlefish

Species Guide Coming Soon

World Record —

Signature Fact More details coming soon.

Muskellunge

Learn More Here Verified Catch

World Record 67 lb 8 oz
Cal Johnson / 1949
Lake Court Oreilles, Wisconsin

Signature Fact A shocking number of hookups explode inches from the net during boatside figure‑eights-pure cardiac fishing.

Striped Bass

Species Guide Coming Soon

World Record —

Signature Fact More details coming soon.

Largemouth Bass

Learn More Here Verified Catch

World Record 22 lb 4 oz
Manabu Kurita / 2009
Lake Biwa, Japan

Signature Fact High-speed videos show they snap their mouth fully open in about 30 milliseconds, vacuuming prey from 3 inches.

Common Carp

Learn More Here Verified Catch

World Record 75 lb 11 oz
Colin Smith / 2013
Lac de Saint-Cassien, France

Signature Fact They remember being hooked for over a year, dodging that same rig and flavor like seasoned veterans.

FAQs

What is the biggest freshwater fish in the US?

The white sturgeon is the largest freshwater fish in the US, capable of reaching over 10 feet in length and weighing hundreds of pounds.

What are the largest freshwater fish you can catch?

Alligator gar, sturgeon, blue catfish, flathead catfish, paddlefish, and muskellunge are among the largest freshwater fish anglers can target in the US.

Where can you catch giant freshwater fish in the US?

Major river systems like the Mississippi, Missouri, and Columbia Rivers, as well as large reservoirs and lakes, are prime locations.

Are these fish hard to catch?

Yes. Many require specialized gear, patience, and knowledge of specific habitats to target successfully.

What makes a fish a trophy freshwater catch?

Size, rarity, and the challenge of landing the fish all contribute to what anglers consider a true trophy.