The International Underwater Spearfishing Association

International Underwater Spearfishing Association

World Record

22.6 kg. , 49.8 lbs.

Lingcod Ophiodon elongatus

Record Category: Men Speargun

Diver:		Chris Pollack
Date:		8/9/2026
Location:		UNITED STATES

We arrived at our spot shrouded in heavy fog with a decent current. We had about 10’ of visibility in dark green water at the surface. Once we dropped 15-20’ below the surface it opened up to a deep blue with 20’+ visibility. After several drifts, we secured some nice black rockfish but hadn’t yet seen a lingcod. The commotion drew them in; my dive buddies speared some nice lings on the following drifts. Then it was my turn. I took my last breath and kicked for the bottom. I was surrounded by nice sized rockfish as I surveyed the zone. I leveled out on the seafloor & took my position in the kelp. That’s when I saw it; a big lingcod working the edge of the dropoff. It swam perpendicular to me then quartered away. I gave a few grunts to pique its interest as I kicked to close the distance. I lined up & placed the shaft right in the back of its head along the top of its gill plate. It was a solid holding shot so I kicked for the surface, grabbing my shooting line to keep it off the bottom. This fish had some power! I quickly pulled it the rest of the way up and grabbed it by the gills. What a beast! I brained and bled it on my kick to the boat. After getting it on deck alongside the others, I realized its enormity. Another incredible trip with the boys. I am truly blessed!
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