Even if you don’t eat fish, you’ll probably always remember the first time you went fishing and reeled in a big one. There’s just something magical about that moment, standing on the dock (or wobbling on your tiptoes if you’re tiny), feeling the tug on the line, and realizing you actually caught something.

That’s exactly what happened to one adorable toddler who recently caught a massive bass while out fishing with his dad. The proud little fisherman could hardly believe his luck, and instead of holding it up like a trophy, he did the most precious thing imaginable. In the clip below, he cuddles his giant catch close to his chest like it’s a beloved stuffed animal, smiling from ear to ear as if he’s just met his new best friend. The way he cradles that fish like it’s a Squishmallow might be the most heartwarming (and hilarious) thing you’ll see all week.

This super-cute TikTok clip was shared by @teedybee, and this little tike is making my ovaries hurt with how cute he is. My baby-making days are significantly over, but I’ll volunteer to babysit this cutie anytime! People in the comments are cracking up, and one person said, “It’s the way that fish is just letting lil’ man have his moment, not a single flip OR flop.” LOL, facts.

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Another person noticed how calm this kid is and said, “I ain’t never seen a fish held like that… is it scared of him? Is he a fish whisperer? Why is it so calm? hell ya, lil fella.” Someone else added, “The fish just calmly allowing itself to suffocate, he’s like this kid is so cute I can’t cause a scene.” True!

There’s something so pure about the way kids see the world, where a huge slimy fish isn’t just a catch, it’s a new friend. This little kid’s hug proves that sometimes the joy of fishing isn’t about what you reel in; it’s about the wonder of the moment. Whether he grows up to be a pro fisherman or just keeps this as his cutest childhood memory, one thing’s for sure: That bass will go down as the most beloved “catch” of all time.

This story was originally reported by PawNation on Nov 18, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add PawNation as a Preferred Source by clicking here.