Boy, 8, catches massive 59-pound catfish while on spring break river adventure

WENTZVILLE, Mo. (KMOV/Gray News) - An 8-year-old Missouri boy had a spring break trip that is going viral thanks to catching a massive fish.

The Perez family said they booked a guided excursion with Captain Wally of Show Me Catfishing, a St. Louis-based fishing service, over the break with their son Reese.

And the trip did not disappoint. When they were on the river near Alton, Reese felt something grab his line.

After pulling the fish up, the 8-year-old discovered that he landed a 59.6-pound catfish that was nearly the size of him.

The spring break adventure video ended up being picked up by the Outdoor Life Instagram page, where it has been viewed hundreds of times.

The Perez family said everyone was excited and surprised about the massive catch.

Reese released the trophy fish back into the river but said the experience is something he will not soon forget.