Tom Illar, Jr. of Apollo was trolling a Northern King Spoon on May 19 when the monster fish took off with the lure. When the battle was finally done, Illar was holding the biggest trout he'd ever caught. According to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, which certifies the state's official angling records, the fish was actually the biggest lake trout anyone has ever taken in Commonwealth waters. Illar's fish broke the former record of 27 lbs, 10 ounces, set just last year by another Erie lake trout. Ironically, that mark was established by another teen - Timothy Strobel of New Stanton, who was only 14 at the time of his catch.

"There are really two things noteworthy about this turn of events," said Commission Executive Director Peter A. Colangelo. "First of all, we've had two lake trout records in as many years. That's encouraging for anyone who fishes Lake Erie. Even more important is that these catches were made by youngsters. Youth participation and success is exciting news for all anglers and the future of fishing itself." .