When Kirk Dill reeled in a 49-pound Almaco Jack last July, a world record was the furthest thing from his mind.

This game fishing enthusiast was simply doing what he always does at sea - having fun.

However, since last Friday he has been "jumping for joy", totally ecstatic that his 75-minute tussle to wrest that fish from the waters of Argus Banks on 20-lb test line has earned him a place in the International Game Fishing Association's World Record Book.

"The 2002 record book isn't out yet but I have received the world record citation from them which confirms that my catch will be entered. I'm pretty proud," said the 35-year-old who has been fishing since childhood.

"You don't go out there looking for world records - just to have fun. I guess I was lucky. It's my first world record and it's a great feeling."

Dill, the Fishing Chairman of Blue Waters Anglers' Club (BWAC), explained his efforts were being recognised in the record book since it was the first time an Almaco Jack had been caught on the type of line which he used.

The catch - made aboard Allan Bean's boat Nothing's Easy - came during the annual tournament between BWAC and their colleagues from the Sea and Surf Anglers Club of Boston.