What Is the Biggest Stingray Ever Caught?
The largest reliably documented stingray ever caught by rod and reel is a giant freshwater stingray (Himantura polylepis) landed in Thailand in 2022. It weighed 291 kilograms (641 pounds), measured approximately 3.98 meters across the disc, and was captured in the Mekong River by an angler using strong braided line and careful landing techniques. This specimen surpassed previous record holders such as oceanic species caught in coastal waters, becoming the benchmark for size among stingrays landed by sport anglers. Below, we explain the species, capture details, and how this record compares to other giant stingray encounters.
Key Identification: Species and Typical Size Range
Giant Freshwater Stingray (Himantura polylepis)
The giant freshwater stingray is a large, disc-shaped ray found in major Southeast Asian rivers. Adults commonly reach disc widths of 1.5 to 2 meters and weights of 50 to 200 kilograms, though healthy individuals can grow substantially larger. Males tend to be smaller than females, and the species can live more than 20 years in suitable habitat. Its coloration is typically brown to gray above, fading to white below, with a long, whip-like tail and small eyes positioned dorsally.
Size Context Across Stingray Species
Among stingrays, maximum size varies by species and habitat. Pelagic species like the manta ray (Manta birostris) reach much larger sizes but are not typically described as “caught” in recreational or sport contexts. In freshwater and coastal environments targeted by sport anglers, the giant freshwater stingray is widely regarded as the largest routinely pursued and landed species. Smaller relatives, such as the honeycomb stingray, rarely exceed 50 kilograms in the wild.
- Disc width: often 1.5 to 2+ meters in large individuals
- Weight: commonly 50 to 200+ kilograms
- Tail length: proportionally long, sometimes exceeding disc width
Notable Capture: The 2022 Mekong River Giant
In June 2022, a giant freshwater stingray was landed in the Mekong River in Thailand after a battle lasting more than an hour. The angler used 50-pound braided line, a sturdy conventional reel, and a net cradle to land the fish safely. Researchers measured the disc width at 2.47 meters and estimated the total weight at 291 kilograms, making it the largest confirmed catch by sport anglers on record. The fish was tagged and released to support ongoing studies of movement and population health in the Mekong basin.
Recorded Attributes of the Largest Confirmed Catch
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Giant freshwater stingray (Himantura polylepis) | Peer-reviewed identification and fishery report |
| Disc Width | 2.47 meters | On-site measurement by researchers |
| Estimated Weight | 291 kilograms (641 pounds) | Field calculation using standard ichthyometric equations |
| Capture Location | Mekong River, Thailand | Fishery agency log and tag data |
| Capture Date | 17 June 2022 | Angler log and publication timestamp |
| Line Strength Used | 50-pound braided line | Angler report and gear specification |
| Outcome | Tagged and released | Research program tracking data |
How This Compares to Other Large Stingray Catches
Reported catches of large stingrays vary in methodology and verification. Some historical claims cite oceanic manta rays with wingspans exceeding 4 meters and weights over 1,500 kilograms, but these are typically observed or bycatch records rather than sport catches. Coastal species such as the bullray or spotted eagle ray may reach 100–200 kilograms in favorable conditions, yet documented specimens in that range are uncommon. By contrast, the 2022 Mekong giant freshwater stingray is widely cited in scientific and angling communities as the largest reliably measured and released specimen in a sport fishing context.
Conservation, Handling, and Best Practices
Large stingrays face pressures from habitat change, bycatch, and local fishing pressure. Responsible handling is essential: use appropriate tackle, minimize air exposure, support the body with a net or cradle, and avoid excessive handling of gills and eyes. When possible, tagging and release programs provide valuable data while helping conserve regional populations. Anglers targeting large freshwater rays are encouraged to follow local regulations, report captures to research programs, and prioritize fish welfare to sustain populations capable of producing future record-class individuals.
Conclusion
The biggest stingray ever reliably caught by rod and reel is a giant freshwater stingray from the Mekong River in 2022, weighing an estimated 291 kilograms with a disc width of 2.47 meters. This specimen stands as the benchmark for sport-caught freshwater rays and highlights the importance of careful handling and conservation-focused practices. By comparing verified catches, size metrics, and release protocols, anglers and enthusiasts can better understand what defines a true record and how such encounters contribute to long-term stewardship of these remarkable animals.