Five hours off the western coast of Nova Scotia, a 13-year-old girl achieved a world tuna-fishing record at the 22nd annual Wedgeport Tuna Tournament and Festival.
Délynn Jacquard, aboard the Pelagic Predator, landed a 711-pound (323-kilogram) tuna on Wednesday, potentially setting a new International Game Fish Association female junior world record. This surpasses the former record of 618 pounds set by Nova Scotian Jenna Gavin in Ballantynes Cove over a decade ago.
Reflecting on her accomplishment, Jacquard shared, “I was doubtful at first, thinking I might not succeed. But I did it and felt proud of myself.” It took her slightly over an hour to reel in the tuna, describing the process as physically demanding, involving twisting and pulling the line as the fish is brought closer.
Délynn’s father, Camille Jacquard, who captains the Pelagic Predator, has been part of the tournament for about 20 years. This year marked Délynn’s debut in big-game fishing, and while she contemplates returning next year, her future participation remains uncertain.
Brandon Doucette, a tournament board member, mentioned that the official confirmation of the record may take up to six months. He highlighted that IGFA records are based on pre-gutting weight, whereas the Wedgeport tournament considers weight post-partial gutting. Jacquard’s tuna weighed 711 pounds fresh from the water and 635 pounds after partial gutting.
The 2026 Wedgeport Tuna Tournament witnessed another record-breaking moment as Capt. Brent Pothier aboard the Lucas & Noah vessel reeled in an 801-pound bluefin tuna, surpassing the previous record of 796 pounds set in 2014. Doucette emphasized the excitement surrounding the new records, noting the historical significance of the tournament in the community.
Amidst celebrating the sport and records, Doucette highlighted the tournament’s historical ties to the community, recalling Wedgeport’s legacy as the former host of the International Tuna Cup Match from the 1930s to 1960s, garnering recognition as a global sport tuna fishing hub.
Doucette reassured that all catches during the event fall within the region’s commercial quota, ensuring the tuna will be utilized either in restaurants or households.
The annual tournament not only celebrates achievements but also serves as a cultural event uniting the community in a shared passion for fishing and history.