Pittsburgh Fisherman Landed Massive 36-Pound Catfish
A Pennsylvania angler reeled in a record-sized catch near the city's iconic Hot Metal Bridge over the weekend.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Fishing
Tim Reddinger, who operates Reddi Bait in Beaver, hooked a 36.1-pound catfish while fishing beneath the Hot Metal Bridge in Pittsburgh. The massive catch was documented in photos and videos shared on Sunday.
Why it matters
This significant catch has drawn attention from local fishing enthusiasts because it may qualify as a new Pennsylvania state record for the species. The accomplishment highlights the productive nature of Pittsburgh's river systems for trophy-sized fish.
The catfish weighed in at 36.1 pounds. The specimen was landed by Tim Reddinger near the Hot Metal Bridge.
The players
Tim Reddinger
Tim Reddinger is a local fisherman and the operator of Reddi Bait, a business located in Beaver, Pennsylvania.
The details
Tim Reddinger, the owner of Reddi Bait in Beaver, successfully reeled in the large catfish over the course of the weekend. Visual evidence of the feat, including photos and video footage, was posted for the public on Sunday.
Timeline
The catfish was caught during the weekend of October 3-4, 2026.
Photos and videos of the catch were shared on Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Culture Shift
The pursuit of record-breaking catches reflects a broader obsession with trophy angling in the state. This trend often drives local fishing communities to document their success in hopes of reaching state-level recognition.
Local anglers may be motivated to test their own gear near the Hot Metal Bridge following this report of a trophy-sized fish. The potential state record may also increase traffic to local bait and tackle shops like Reddi Bait.
The takeaway
Documenting measurements and capturing high-quality video is essential for any angler looking to verify a potential state record. Consistent success in local waters often stems from deep local knowledge of river conditions and habitat patterns.
Further reading
For more on regional angling, visit the Fishing section.
