This American Paddlefish was caught by 14-year-old Thomas Ledergerber of New Martinsville at Hannibal Locks and Dam on the West Virginia side of the Ohio river. It was caught on Saturday, July 20, at 8 p.m. It measured approximately four feet long and weighed 15-20 pounds.

The American Paddlefish, also commonly referred as a spoonbill, is an endangered species in West Virginia.

The state division of natural resources requires that they be released back into their natural habitat upon catching.

After pictures were taken, Thomas released his catch safely back into the river.