Maximum size of monster fish

[Kingdoffishcraft]

Hi all,
I've been looking into monster fish and have noticed that the reported maximum sizes of some species often seem exaggerated compared to what can actually be verified.
For example, claims of 10-foot alligator gars, giant barbs weighing over 600 lbs, or paroon sharks exceeding 600 lbs are common, but I rarely see solid evidence supporting these figures.
I was wondering if anyone has any firsthand accounts, reliable data, photographs, measurements, or documented records of these fish actually reaching their stated maximum sizes and if these maximum sizes should be updated.
I'd be especially interested in evidence-based examples rather than anecdotal reports.
Thanks in advance!

 

[danotaylor]

Not quite 10’, but close…





There’s loads of images online of massive alligator gar caught fishing or bow hunting. Some may be fakes I guess, but there seems to be quite a few that appear legit as well.

Are you asking regarding aquarium or pond raised specimens, or just in general?

 

[Kingdoffishcraft]

Not quite 10’, but close…

View attachment 1576558

View attachment 1576559

There’s loads of images online of massive alligator gar caught fishing or bow hunting. Some may be fakes I guess, but there seems to be quite a few that appear legit as well.

Are you asking regarding aquarium or pond raised specimens, or just in general?

Just in general. Because I've been seeing many people claim sizes beyond reality and I want to know the actual size limits just for curiosity but also in search for the true sizes. Just feel like a lot of misinformation is being spread around

 

[jjohnwm]

I don't think it's misinformation; it's just that you are looking at extreme examples, of species that continue to grow throughout their long lives, which have been fortunate enough to live to a ripe old age. Those immense sizes may be beyond reality today, but that may not always have been the case.

It's like asking for the maximum height achieved by human beings. Does the fact that a tiny fraction of a percent of humans reach a height in excess of 7 feet mean that 7+feet is the maximum height achievable by humans? Well, yes, technically it does...but that does not mean that such a height can be expected. And humans stop growing taller very early in life. Fish generally keep going, albeit at slower and slower rates.

Pictures like those above are very informative. They show that these huge sizes are achievable...and they also illustrate one of the reasons why such monster specimens are rarely seen today. No such thing as catch-and-release bow fishing. Purposely seeking out and removing the largest individuals of a species is reducing the average size of the remaining individuals.