Angler Lands Legendary “Catzilla,” But Giant Catfish Escapes Back Into Hesperia Lake

HESPERIA, Calif. (VVNG.com) — The legend of “Catzilla” continues after Hesperia Lake Park announced Thursday that its famous 50-pound catfish escaped moments after being landed by a local angler.

According to information shared by Hesperia Lake Park on Thursday, July 30, local angler Justin hooked the legendary fish early Tuesday morning after what the park described as an unforgettable battle that drew the attention of nearby anglers.

After successfully bringing the giant catfish ashore, Justin posed for a quick photo with the fish before attempting to place it into a fish basket.

But the legendary catfish had other plans.

“As Justin carefully moved to place him into a fish basket, CATZILLA unleashed one final burst of legendary power. With a violent thrash of his massive tail, the monster catfish slipped free, launched himself across the shoreline, and disappeared back into the waters of Hesperia Lake before anyone could react,” the park wrote in its social media post.

The park congratulated Justin on the memorable encounter, adding, “Congratulations to Justin (not pictured) on an incredible catch and an even better fishing story. Sometimes the best catches are the ones that become legends.”

The dramatic escape comes just days after Hesperia Lake Park shared news of a 30-pound catfish that reportedly broke the scale after being caught on July 26, while reminding anglers that the lake’s true prize was still the elusive 50-pound “Catzilla.”

For those hoping to write the next chapter in the legendary fish’s story, Hesperia Lake Park announced that another stocking is scheduled for Friday, July 31, when 1,000 pounds of channel catfish from Pacific Aqua Farms Co. are expected to be added to the lake.

The park noted that fish are typically stocked on the scheduled date, but arrival times are not guaranteed and may change without notice.

Whether “Catzilla” will be caught again remains to be seen, but for now, the King of Hesperia Lake has once again lived up to his legendary reputation.

Note to readers: If you value our reporting and want to see it continue, consider becoming a monthly supporter. Your contribution helps keep independent, local news accessible to everyone. Support local news today!

Related article: Monster 30-Pound Catfish Caught At Hesperia Lake Park, Legendary “Catzilla” Still Lurks