Bob I'm not doubting Bands report at all, I think it's possible the person who recaptured the fish either exaggerated it's size, estimated the fishes length or used the attached ruler
. Radioactive East River bunker can't be ruled out though! Young snappers do grow very quickly, at times an inch a week in the early stages of their life cycle as do peanut bunker and most juvenile fish to survive. Mature 28" fish with that growth rate, guess anything is possible but that would be a freak of nature. Maybe two bluefins grabbed it from each side and stretched it! I'm not accusing Bands of anything, love his reports and the fact he takes time to tag so many fish. Lot of useful information from his efforts and he should be commended. If someone lands a 57" bluefish in Maine later this year, I'll remove my post.
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1676448...ancement-prank
