Kentucky-based angler Art Weston, a seasoned fisherman with several records to his name, returned to Texas’ Sam Rayburn Lake aiming to break yet another record under the International Game and Fishing Association. Last year, guided by Captain Kirk Kirkland, Weston managed a historic catch a 293-pound alligator gar on a mere six-pound line, a feat widely covered by Fox News Digital.

This season, Weston, alongside Kirkland, hoped to surpass previous achievements. Despite multiple near-record encounters with giant alligator gars, which involved intense struggles lasting over an hour, they could not secure a new record. However, the fishing trip took an unexpected turn when they hooked a massive 200-plus-pound alligator snapping turtle, initially mistaken for another giant gar due to its aggressive fight.

Kirkland quickly identified the catch as a turtle by its distinct battle in the water, and upon surfacing, its colossal size was startling. Handling the enormous reptile required extreme caution due to its powerful bite, capable of severe injury. The duo safely removed the hook from the turtle’s foot, mindful of its protected status, ensuring it was unharmed before releasing it back into the lake.

Reflecting on the rarity of encountering such a secretive and slowly maturing species, Kirkland highlighted the uniqueness of their catch, which more commonly would be found in a zoo than on the end of a fisherman’s line.

Reinvigorated by their unexpected encounter, Weston and Kirkland returned to the lake the following day. Their persistence paid off when they landed a 188-pound alligator gar on a four-pound line, smashing the previous record of a 117-pound gar caught on similar tackle. The meticulous process of weighing and documenting the gar ensured its health upon release, demonstrating the duo’s commitment to conservation.

Weston has since submitted the application for this latest world-record catch, cementing his and Kirkland’s names in the annals of sportfishing history.