Fishidy reported: On January 28, 2014, Jake Rodiek caught – and released – what is almost certainly the state record northern pike for the state of Nebraska. There is no question that this behemoth fish was the “the one that got away” for other anglers, as it had three hooks in its jaw, all trailing broken line, when Jake landed it.
Measuring a staggering 45″ long and with a 27.5″ girth, it was difficult to get the fish up through the 8″ hole. In fact, the fish had become entangled during the fight, and Jake had to reach under the 12″ thick ice to pull the fish topside.
On top of the ice, Jake and his fishing partner removed the various hooks from the fish’s jaw, and one that was in it’s back as well. They snapped a couple of quick pictures and took measurements, then released the fish to fight another day.
“As soon as I held this fish up, I knew it was a record fish,” said Rodiek.
When asked why he’d release a fish that would put him firmly in the record books, Jake answered, “I just feel better about knowing that I might catch that fish out there again when it’s even bigger. I do the same with trophy fish of any species.”
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