169lb Ebro catfish

This is a picture of what is believed to be the biggest catfish ever caught from a float tube.

The huge predator, weighing 169lb, was landed by Gerard Smyth while fishing under the expert guidance of Dee Mason who runs Monster Tours on the famous River Ebro in Spain.

“It was the most exciting and nerve wracking thing I have ever experienced,” said Gerard. “The fish just dragged me up and down the river like a wet sock and at one point dived in to a 60ft deep hole and did its best to pull me with it. After well over an hour I eventually won the battle.

“I am sticking to float tubing for pike in Ireland from now on, though. Maybe one day when my heart stops racing and I stop shaking with joy I might have another pop."