Arizona Youth Hooks Rare Albino Catfish in Thrilling Catch

Arizona Game and Fish Department confirmed to 12News that albino catfish are not commonly found in Arizona.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Gabe Drews made an exceptional catch at Chaparral Lake, landing a rare albino catfish, a rarity for anglers in Arizona.

The 12-year-old used a unique bait combination given by another angler. “It was catfish guts and blood mixed with bread,” Drews said. “It’s really stinky, so the fish like it.”

Immediately after the catch, Drews snapped a few photos and released the albino catfish back into the water. He then informed the Arizona Game and Fish Department. According to the department, while the catch is “definitely not common,” albino catfish can sometimes be part of stock introductions in community waters.

His mother, Tina Drews, shared his excitement. “We were all just super excited for him to have that really special catch right there in Scottsdale, near where we live,” she said.

This event marked Gabe Drews’ first fishing trip to Chaparral Lake, making the experience even more memorable. “I thought it was really fun. I think other people should fish. You can catch cool things too, and all different kinds of things,” he said. “Just make sure you have the right stuff.”

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