In the 22nd annual Wedgeport Tuna Tournament and Festival, off the west coast of Nova Scotia, a 13-year-old girl has set a new world record in tuna fishing. Délynn Jacquard, aboard the Pelagic Predator, caught a 711-pound tuna, potentially becoming the new International Game Fish Association female junior world record holder.
Jacquard surpassed the previous record of 618 pounds, set by Jenna Gavin from Nova Scotia 12 years ago, by nearly 100 pounds. She described feeling unsure initially but ultimately proud of her achievement after an intense hour-long reel-in process.
Délynn Jacquard, guided by her father Camille Jacquard, who captains the Pelagic Predator, made her debut in big-game fishing at this tournament. While uncertain about returning next year, she reflected on the challenging yet rewarding experience.
Brandon Doucette, a tournament board member, anticipates official confirmation of the record within six months. He highlighted that the Wedgeport tournament weighs fish differently than IGFA standards, with Jacquard’s tuna weighing 711 pounds initially and 635 pounds after gutting.
This year’s tournament saw another remarkable catch as Capt. Brent Pothier, aboard the Lucas & Noah, reeled in an 801-pound bluefin tuna, the heaviest in the tournament’s history, surpassing the previous record set in 2014. Doucette expressed excitement over these record-breaking achievements.
The Wedgeport Tuna Tournament holds historical significance, dating back to the 1930s as a renowned destination for anglers worldwide. Doucette emphasized the event’s cultural importance and community celebration.
All catches at the tournament fell within the region’s commercial quota, ensuring the distribution of the landed tuna to restaurants and households. The event’s success and the record-breaking catches have marked 2026 as a memorable year for the tournament.
The annual event not only celebrates fishing prowess but also honors the rich cultural heritage of Wedgeport, maintaining its legacy as a hub for sport tuna fishing.