On a chilly and snow-covered afternoon on January 23rd, the Wyman family, accompanied by friends, was engaged in ice fishing on the expansive Moosehead Lake in Piscataquis County, Maine. While enjoying the warmth of a cabin by the shore, keeping an eye on their ice-fishing tip-ups, Jada Wyman ventured out as the day concluded to retrieve their equipment. Upon reaching into a fishing hole, approximately three feet deep, she discovered her line frozen. As she worked to free it, an unexpected resistance emerged, signaling a significant catch. For about fifteen minutes, the 19-year-old waitress from Abbot engaged in a determined battle, hand-lining the unseen fish while her brother, Clarence, managed the frozen reel. Despite the challenging conditions, she eventually maneuvered the fish to the opening, only for it to create a powerful whirlpool and momentarily escape back into the depths, reigniting the struggle.
After playing the fish with renewed effort, Jada successfully brought her remarkable catch to the surface. She expressed that while she had experience with ice fishing over five years, this particular fish was her largest to date. The brook trout boasted vibrant colors, featuring distinctive white-tipped fins and a deep crimson belly. It measured an impressive 24 inches in length and tipped the scales at 5 pounds, 1.5 ounces. Although this magnificent specimen did not surpass the state record of 9 pounds, 2 ounces set in 2010 by Patrick Coan, it stands as an extraordinary catch. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service notes that brook trout typically range from 6 to 15 inches and usually weigh less than Jada's impressive trophy.
Jada recounted cleaning and sharing the fish, which provided a meal for her entire family with some remaining. Beyond being a source of sustenance, this significant catch will also be commemorated. She plans to commission a replica mount of the trout, ensuring that the beauty and memory of her personal best achievement endure. This event highlights the joy and excitement that fishing can bring, creating lasting memories and fulfilling experiences for those who embrace the challenge of the outdoors.