Wahpper: The World’s Largest Catfish in Wahpeton, North Dakota

Where the Bois de Sioux and Otter Tail rivers merge in southeastern North Dakota, the Red River of the North begins its winding trek northward into Canada. The river is renowned across the continent as an angler’s mecca for trophy channel catfish—monsters that draw fishermen hoping to reel in record-breaking river beasts. In Wahpeton, however, the biggest catch in town isn't lurking beneath the murky current; it rests firmly on dry land. Behold Wahpper, an undeniable titan of roadside Americana. Stretching 40 feet long, standing 12 feet tall, and tipping the scales at 5,000 pounds (2.5 tons), Wahpper holds court as theworld’s largest catfish sculpture. His moniker is a cheeky portmanteau honoring both his hometown of Wahpeton and the classic fishermen’s brag: an undeniable whopper. Wahpper is the brainwork of celebrated fiberglass sculptor Dave Oswald, whose monumental wildlife and livestock landmarks populate the upper Midwest—including New Salem’s towering dairy monument, Salem Sue. Wahpper was brought to life in 1997 through a joint effort between local businesses, the Wahpeton Park Board, and the Wahpeton Visitors Committee, at a cost of roughly $12,000. When the behemoth was …

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