Two fishermen from Connecticut made headlines after catching a monumental 700-pound Thresher shark, potentially the largest of its kind ever recorded in the state’s waters. Ed Lovely, age 46, and his fishing companion embarked on a fishing trip off the coast of Stonington last Wednesday, where they encountered the powerful predator. According to reports, it took Lovely more than six hours to bring the shark aboard, highlighting both the thrill and challenge of deep-sea fishing. The experience not only tested his endurance but also showcased the excitement inherent in angling.
As Lovely cast his line into the water, he was met with an immediate sensation that something significant was on the other end. He described the moment vividly, saying, “Bang, I feel something,” which marked the beginning of an intense struggle with the massive fish. This initial tug triggered a battle that lasted well into the night. Both fishermen found themselves engaged in a strenuous contest, working in tandem amid the relentless motion of the waves, as they fought to land the remarkable creature.
The culmination of their efforts revealed a shark that stretched an impressive 16.5 feet, nearly longer than the boat itself. Lovely recounted the moment of seeing the shark’s enormous head break the surface, describing it as an awe-inspiring experience. His reaction was one of sheer disbelief as he marveled, “Wow, holy mackerel, look at that shark, it is the biggest shark I’ve ever seen.” This moment not only underscored the thrill of fishing but also the deep respect that anglers have for the ocean’s giants.
After successfully landing the shark, Lovely and his partner celebrated the moment in a child-like fashion, laughing and enjoying the thrill of their catch. They took time to appreciate their hard work, even laying on the deck of their boat under the stars, equipped with headlamps that illuminated their smiles. Such moments of celebration are common among fishermen, illustrating the camaraderie and joy that the sport can bring, regardless of the size of the catch.
Given the shark’s size, the fishermen had to employ inventive measures to transport it home. Unable to fit the shark on board, they rigged it alongside the boat and towed it back to shore. This logistical challenge speaks to the enormity of their catch and emphasizes the need for careful handling of such a prized specimen. After reaching land, they arranged for a trailer to transport the shark, further exemplifying the teamwork and resourcefulness involved in their fishing venture.
Lovely’s monumental catch has sparked discussions with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to verify if it breaks any state records. A representative from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection suggested that this catch might also qualify for a Marine Trophy Fish Award, adding an official recognition to the achievement. Meanwhile, Lovely’s family has embraced the shark’s catch by preparing its meat for sharing with relatives and friends, which not only celebrates their victory but also highlights a tradition of communal enjoyment among those who venture into the waters.
