In an remarkable display of angling prowess, a young fisherman from Connecticut recently established a new state benchmark for rainbow trout, reeling in a colossal specimen that tipped the scales at an astounding 16 pounds, 7.5 ounces. This extraordinary event unfolded shortly after the conclusion of a local fishing derby, transforming what began as a casual extension of a father-son outing into a historic moment for the state's fishing community. The story of this catch highlights perseverance, a touch of luck, and the enduring thrill of the sport.
The annual Riverton Fishing Derby, a cherished tradition for many anglers in southwestern Connecticut, took place on April 11th on the West Branch of the Farmington River. Rich Courtright, 20, and his father, Richie, were among the numerous participants, continuing their long-standing tradition of competing in the event. Although Rich secured a commendable third place with a 5.6-pound rainbow trout, earning a handmade wooden clock, their fishing adventure was far from over. As they journeyed home, the allure of the river proved irresistible, prompting them to make an unscheduled stop for more fishing.
Upon returning to the West Branch of the Farmington River, the Courtrights found a stretch of water that had already seen considerable angling activity that morning. Undeterred, Rich and his father parted ways to explore different sections. It was Rich who, with a keen eye, spotted an unusually large, reddish flash deep within the clear water behind a boulder. Recognizing the immense size of the fish, significantly larger than its rocky hiding spot, he immediately suspected it could be a record-breaker.
Despite his initial attempts with various lures from his tackle box, the elusive trout remained unyielding. Frustrated but determined, Rich contacted his father, conveying his belief that he had sighted a potential state record. His father soon joined him, observing from an elevated position. Remembering live mealworms in their vehicle, Rich retrieved them, returning to the river with renewed hope. Armed with an old Penn spinning reel and a vintage ultralight rod, a gift from his uncle, Rich meticulously cast a small mealworm upstream, allowing it to drift naturally towards the massive rainbow trout. After numerous casts, the fish finally took the bait.
The battle with the enormous trout was a test of skill and patience, lasting nearly ten minutes. Rich expertly maneuvered the fish, preventing it from escaping into the strong currents. Once safely netted, the true magnitude of his catch became apparent. Realizing they had indeed caught a record-setting fish, the pair embarked on a quest to find a certified scale. After an initial attempt at a local tackle shop proved unfruitful, they proceeded to a Stop-and-Shop grocery store in Winstead. There, after some persuasion, the seafood department manager weighed their prize catch, which registered an astonishing 16.47 pounds on the certified scale.
The official confirmation arrived on Monday: Rich Courtright's rainbow trout was declared the new Connecticut state record, weighing in at an impressive 16 pounds, 7.5 ounces. This monumental catch shattered the previous record of 14 pounds, 10 ounces, which had stood unchallenged since 1998. In honor of this remarkable achievement and in keeping with fishing traditions, Rich plans to have his record-breaking trout preserved through a detailed skin mount by a veteran taxidermist, a testament to his unforgettable day on the Farmington River.