Bass Fishing Facts

Record Holding Largemouth Bass From All 50 States

BassFishingFacts — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 02:50:57 +0000

Bill Evans holding his record largemouth bass he caught on August 8, 2016 – breaking an almost 40 year Washington record.

Updated November 19, 2024 – Originally posted October 2016

We have all heard of Manabu Kurita’s world record shattering 22.331 pound bass caught in Japan in mid-2009. And we have heard legends of George Perry’s 22.25 pounder caught on Montgomery Lake in Georgia in 1932. But what if you live in a state where the average weight of a bass caught is between 1-2 pounds? How do you know if your personal best stacks up to the record held within your own state?

Below is a list of all the current record holding largemouth bass from all 50 states. 2016 is turing out to be a good year with 2 records already being broken. Andre Klein pulled in a 11 lb 1.6 oz monster from Wagaons Pond on February 20, 2016 and Bill Evans posted a 12.53 lb bass on August 8, 2016, earning him the top spot as Washington State’s record holder.

State	Weight	Date	Location	Angler Name
Alabama	16 lbs 8 oz	11/3/87	Mtn. View Lake, Shelby Co	Thomas (T. M.) Burgin
Alaska	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Arizona	16 lbs 7.68 oz	4/22/97	Canyon Lake	Randall E. White
Arkansas	16 lbs 8 oz	3/2/76	Mallard Lake	Aaron Mardis
California	21 lbs 12 oz	3/5/91	Castaic Lake (at the main boat ramp)	Michael Arujo
Colorado	11 lbs 6 oz	9/20/97	Echo Canyon Reservoir (Archuleta County)	Jarrett Edwards
Connecticut	12 lbs 14 oz	1961	Mashapaug Lake, Union	Frank Domurat
Delaware	11 lbs 1.6 oz	2/20/16	Wagamons Pond	Andre Klein
Florida	17.27 lbs	7/6/86	Unnamed Lake	Billy O’Berry
Georgia	22 lbs 4 oz	6/2/32	Montgomery Lake	George Perry
Hawaii	9 lbs 9.4 oz	1/26/92	Waita Res., Kaua’i	Dickie Broyles
Idaho	10.94 lbs	N/A	Anderson Lake	Mrs. M.W. Taylor
Illinois	13 lbs 1 oz	2/15/76	Stone Quarry Lake	Edward J. Walbel
Indiana	14 lbs 12 oz	5/27/91	Seven Springs Lake	Jenifer Schultz
Iowa	10 lbs 12 oz	5/1/84	Lake Fisher	Patricia Zar
Kansas	11.8 lbs	5/3/08	Private Pit Lake, Cherokee Co.	Tyson Hallam
Kentucky	14 lbs 9.5 oz	4/19/19	Highsplint Lake	Mark Ward
Louisiana	15.97 lbs	1994	Caney Lake	Greg Wiggins
Maine	11 lbs 10 oz	1968	Moose Pond	Robert Kamp
Maryland	11.4 lbs	7/31/2013	Huntington Farm Pond	Colton Lambert
Massachusetts	15 lbs 8 oz	2/13/1975	Sampson Pond, Carver	Walter Bolonis
Michigan	11.9 lbs (tie)*	1934 & 1959	Big Pine Island Lake & Alcona Dam Pond	N/A
Minnesota	8 lbs 15 oz	10/3/2005	Auburn Lake	Mark Raveling
Mississippi	18.15 lbs	12/31/1992	Natchez State Park Lake	Anthony Denny
Missouri	13 lbs 14 oz	4/21/1961	Bull Shoals Lake	Marvin Russel Bushong
Montana	9.575 lbs	4/27/2021	Lake Elmo	Brandon Wright
Nebraska	10 lbs 11 oz	10/2/1965	Sand Pit near Columbus	Paul Abegglen Sr.
Nevada	12 lbs	1999	Lake Mead	Michael Geary
New Hampshire	10 lbs 8 oz	1967	Lake Potanipo	G. Bullpit
New Jersey	10 lbs 14 oz	1980	Menantico Sand Wash Pond	Robert Eisele
New Mexico	15 lbs 13 oz	3/24/1995	Bill Evans Lake	Steve Estrada
New York	11 lbs 4 oz	9/11/87	Buckhorn Lake	John Higbie
North Carolina	15 lbs 14 oz	3/29/91	Farm Pond, Union County	William H. Wofford
North Dakota	8 lbs 8 oz	2/11/1983	Nelson Lake	Leon Rixen
Ohio	13 lbs 2oz	5/26/1976	Private Pond	Roy Landsberger
Oklahoma	14 lbs 13.7 oz	3/13/13	Cedar Lake	Dale Miller
Oregon	12 lbs 1.6 oz	2002	Ballenger Pond, Springfield	B. Adam Hastings
Pennsylvania	11 lbs 3 oz	1983	Birch Run Reservoir, Adams County	Donald Shade
Rhode Island	10 lbs 6 oz	May 1991	Carbuncle Pond	N. Finamor
South Carolina	16 lbs 2 oz (tie)*	1949 & 1993	Lake Marion & Aiken Co. Pond	P.H. Flanagan & Mason Cummunings
South Dakota	9 lbs 5 oz	4/27/2020	Indian Scout Lake	Matthew Dunham
Tennessee	15 lbs 3 oz	2/13/2015	Chickamauga Reservoir	Gabe Keen
Texas	18.18 lbs	1/24/1992	Lake Fork	Barry St. Clair
Utah	10 lbs 2 oz	1974	Lake Powell	Sam Lamanna
Vermont	10 lbs 4 oz	N/A	N/A	N/A
Virginia	16 lbs 4 oz	5/20/1985	Connor Lake	Richard Tate
Washington	12.53 lbs	8/8/2016	Lake Bosworth, Snohomish County	Bill Evans
West Virginia	12.28 lbs	1994	Pond, Grant County	David W. Heeter
Wisconsin	11 lbs 3 oz	10/12/1940	Lake Ripley, Jefferson County	Robert Milkowski
Wyoming	7 lbs 14 oz	3/15/1992	stock pond, Sheridan County	Dustin Shorma

The Evolution of Bass Boat Motors: A Comparative Analysis of 2-Stroke, 4-Stroke, and Electric Outboard Motors

BassFishingFacts — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 18:01:48 +0000

The evolution of bass boat motors has been a fascinating journey, marked by advancements in technology and a continuous quest for greater efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Two-stroke and four-stroke engines have long been the dominant players in the world of bass fishing, but recent developments in electric outboard motors are introducing a new era of innovation.

History of 2-Stroke and 4-Stroke Bass Boat Motors:

1. 2-Stroke Motors: Two-stroke engines have a rich history in the marine industry, known for their simplicity and lightweight design. These motors ignite a fuel-air mixture in every revolution, providing a power stroke with each cycle. While efficient in terms of power-to-weight ratio, 2-stroke motors have faced criticism for higher emissions and fuel consumption compared to their four-stroke counterparts.

2. 4-Stroke Motors: Four-stroke engines, on the other hand, operate on a more complex cycle, featuring separate intake, compression, power, and exhaust strokes. Although heavier than 2-stroke motors, 4-strokes are praised for their fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and quieter operation. Over time, technological advancements have made them more lightweight and powerful, narrowing the performance gap with 2-stroke motors.

Efficiency and Cost Comparison:

1. Efficiency: In terms of efficiency, 4-stroke motors have a clear advantage. They tend to consume fuel more judiciously, resulting in longer range and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, the combustion process in 4-stroke engines is generally quieter and smoother, enhancing the overall boating experience.

While 2-stroke motors may offer a higher power-to-weight ratio, their fuel efficiency and emissions profiles are often considered less favorable, especially in the context of today’s environmental concerns.

2. Cost: Traditionally, 2-stroke motors have been more affordable upfront compared to 4-strokes. However, the operational costs, including fuel consumption and maintenance, can be higher over the long term. 4-stroke motors, despite their higher initial price, often prove more cost-effective in the overall ownership experience.

Electric outboard motors, though currently pricier than their internal combustion counterparts, have significantly lower operating costs. With fewer moving parts and no need for traditional fuel, electric motors boast minimal maintenance requirements and can be a cost-effective option in the long run.

Recent Developments in Electric Outboard Motors:

The recent surge in interest and advancements in electric outboard motors signals a paradigm shift in the bass boat industry. Electric motors are gaining traction for their silent operation, zero emissions, and low maintenance requirements. Furthermore, technological breakthroughs are extending their range and power capabilities, making them increasingly viable for serious anglers.

The history of bass boat motors reflects a continuous pursuit of efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and improved performance. While 2-stroke and 4-stroke motors have long been the go-to choices, the rise of electric outboard motors presents a promising alternative. As technology continues to advance, the choice between 2-stroke, 4-stroke, or electric will depend on factors such as personal preference, budget considerations, and environmental concerns. The future of bass boat motors is undoubtedly electric, and as the industry adapts, anglers can look forward to a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable fishing experience.

2023 Bass Fisherman Gift Guide – 33 Items Every Fisherman Needs

BassFishingFacts — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 04:55:37 +0000

Just in time for the holiday season – a list of 33 items that every fishermen needs.

Originally posted November 23, 2019 – updated December 23, 2023. We hope you love these products and recommendations. Please know that we may collect a share of the sales or other compensation from the links on this page.

1.Fishing Line – Removing old line and re-spooling with fresh fishing line is relatively cheap, can be done in a matter of minutes, and could be the difference between landing that lunker or breaking on off at the boat.

Get it from Amazon for $18.92

2. Head Lamp – Having a head lamp is a basic essential for all anglers. Whether searching for the right lure in the morning dawn or packing up right a dusk after a long day on the water – having a head lamp to pop on is a great convenience and frees up your hands. Don’t forger that people can and do fish at night.

Get it from Amazon for $13.97

3. Pliers – This simple tool makes such a difference on the water. From cutting line to crushing barbs to removing hooks from fishes mouths, pliers a versatile tool that is essential for every fisherman to have.

Get it from Amazon for $23.99

4. Rod Sleeves – Carrying around multiple rods almost requires rod sleeves, not just for the general protection that the sleeves provide, but to also ensure there is no criss-crossing and accidental damage to your poles.

Get it from Amazon for $16.99

5. Reel Bag – A reel bag is good for storage, travel, and for the fisherman who works with his reels often. This promising review on Amazon says it all, “Movable pockets, secure, lightweight, no complaints.“

Get it from Amazon for $16.99

6. Fish Book or Magazine Subscription – Legitimate magazines still do exist. You can choose from digital or print versions. They are easily gifted via Amazon too!

Get it from Amazon for $10.00

7. Filet Knife – Many anglers practice the Catch-Photo-Release (CPR) method, especially with largemouth. Catfish however, are quite tasty and easy to catch. Having a good, sharp knife around is never a bad idea.

Get it from Amazon for $29.99

8. Tackle Organization – Getting a premium tackle storage box can be quite helpful. Not only are there several compartments to store all sorts of gear – from hard baits, to soft plastics, to extra fishing line – but most come with a flat bottom and sturdy handle for easy portability.

Get it from Amazon for $26.24

9. Polarized Sunglasses – A quality pair of sunglasses can make a big difference on the water. Less eye strain combined with the ability to “see” further into the water makes having a pair of polarized glasses a fishing must. Sunglasses lenses are typically made of plastic or glass and come in a variety of different colors – each color is best suited for specific weather conditions. You can easily find a quality pair of polarized sunglasses for $26.99 – like these.

Get it from Amazon for $135.85

10. Tournament Identifier Cull Kit – Whether it’s a friendly fishing match between buddies or the real-deal money tournament – using a cull-kit is an easy way to keep track of multiple fish in a live well.

Get it from Amazon for $23.93

11. Rod Rack – Storage and organization is just as important at home as it is on the go. Consider an on-the-ground circular rod rack or a wall rod rack or both!

Get it from Amazon for $29.84

12. Latest and greatest from ICAST – While ICAST has lots and lots of 2019 winner from different categories – this year’s freshwater soft plastic lure winner is the Phantom Spider by Lunkerhunt.

Get it from Amazon for $9.49

13. Hawg Trough – A scale is not the only way to get stats on a fish. Many anglers – especially kayak fishermen – now use Hawg Trough’s. A Hawg Trough is essentially a glorified plastic ruler. Pro tip: darken the measurement lines with a sharpie for easier fish length determination. Darkening the measurement lines if often required for tournaments and helps get accurate measurements from pictures.

Get it from Amazon for $29.99

14. Scale – Having a nice scale on hand is always great to truly know how much that “huge” fish weighed. Many anglers will use a strong lip-grip tool in conjunction with the scale so that their is less potential to harm to the fish.

Get it from Amazon for $25.99

15. Glasses Retainer – Using a glasses retainer ensures that you know where your glasses are at all times – around your neck or on your face. Retainers also make it a breeze to constantly take your glasses on and off. Expensive pairs of glasses deserve retainers so that they don’t get stepped on, get flung off, or fall overboard.

Get it from Amazon for $10.96

16. Hat – Spending the day in the sun can be brutal on your skin. A moisture-wicking UV-protecting wide brim hat can offer a great amount of head and face cover.

Get it from Amazon for $29.99

17. Fishing Gloves – Have the hat? Have a long sleeve shirt? Pants? While fishermen typically cover all other areas of their body, their hands and fingers are typically the last thought on their mind, and are often overlooked and left exposed to the elements. However, the area should not be ignored and should either be protected well with sunscreen or specially made fishing gloves.

Get it from Amazon for $18.98

18. In-Ground Rod Holder – Fishing is supposed to be a relaxing hobby. What better way to take that to the max but with a in the ground rod holder. Just shove it in to the ground, cast out your bait, and keep an eye on your rod.

Get it from Amazon for $6.16

19. Fishing Seat – See above re: relaxing fishing. A portable chair with back support that can also hold items sounds like the swiss army knife of chairs. Holds up to 250 pounds!

Get it from Amazon for $39.99

20. Hard Baits – New lures to test and try or that become a favorite are always worth getting. You can also never have enough. Pick the color and size that best suits your location the fish you typically see.

Get it from Amazon for $4.99

21. Soft Plastics – These are hands down the most popular lure or method of largemouth bass fishing. Soft plastics come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and scents. A classic soft plastic that many beginner anglers use is the 5 inch worm in watermelon with black flake.

Get it from Amazon for $4.99

22. Bait Bucket with Aerator – Bait won’t keep with an aerator at the very least. Some will do this with just any ole bucket – which is fine and cheaper. The specially made bait bucket provides an easy access lid for bait that can jump or crawl out.

Get it from Amazon for $22.22

2 3. Rod Cleaning or Repair Kit – Rods get dirty. Rods get broken. Having a cleaning or repair kit can help extend the life and maximize the value of your favorite rods. One can also get satisfaction from restoring something that was once broken back to working condition.

Get it from Amazon for $25.74

24. Fishing Grips – Most grips slide easily over the existing handles and simply add a pop of color while providing extra grip and comfort.

Get it from Amazon for $6.06

25. Fishing Box Subscription – Getting a box of new and curated fishing items delivered to your door each month is exciting. Getting its a gift is even better. The most popular websites, Lucky Tackle Box and Mystery Tackle Box, both make it easy to gift multi-month subscriptions. Always check around on the internet for a discount count code before purchasing at full-price.

Get it from Lucky Tackle Box or Mystery Tackle Box

26. Fishing DVD’s – When the wifi is down or when you are at the far and away lake house – it’s nice to have the physical DVD to pop in and watch some great fishing actions while also getting some tips and tricks to employ the next time you are out.

Get it from Amazon for $6.99

27. Neck Guard – Covering up your neck can be easy, stylish, and cheap – it also can protect you from the sun!

Get it from Amazon for $12.99

28. Storage – kayak rack in garage – Getting your kayak inside your garage is one thing – getting up on the wall is another. It’ll make a world of difference once you have your kayak(s) up on the wall and off the ground. Check out this link for a how-to on kayak wall hanging.

Get a 4-pack from Amazon for $27.99

29. Bobber with Light – This product is actually a light that goes underwater to attract fish – which is kind of cooler than a light-up bobber anyway. Both are cool and should be considered if you’ll be fishing with kids or at night.

Get it from Amazon for $18.99

30. Line Cutter Ring – This ingenious invention hit the market several years ago and is now available to the mass market for a little over $10 bucks. Wearing the ring makes retying and cutting line a breeze.

Get it from Amazon for $11.99

31. Camera to Record Record Catches – Having a camera on board or around that’s in a waterproof casing that floats just feels safer than using your phone. Top end cameras like the GoPro offer better quality videos too.

Get it from Amazon for $329.99

32. Fishing Scent – Adding a little fishing scent to your lures is an easy way to differentiate your lure attractants while on the water. Don’t be afraid to put this on soft or hard baits.

Get it from Amazon for $9.49

33. Knife – Finally on this list is a knife. A simple knife is one of the most convenient and handy tools to have in life in general. Having a knife on your person can make up for a lot of things in a jam – it’s a good idea to have one.

Get it from Amazon for $10.50

Mastering Glide Baits: A Guide to Hooking Trophy-Sized Largemouth Bass

BassFishingFacts — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 20:04:56 +0000

When it comes to pursuing trophy-sized largemouth bass, anglers are constantly seeking new techniques and strategies to increase their chances of landing these elusive giants. One technique that has gained significant popularity in recent years is fishing with glide baits. These realistic lures mimic the natural movements of prey fish and can entice even the most discerning bass into striking. In this article, we will explore the art of fishing glide baits and offer valuable tips to help you target and catch trophy-sized largemouth bass.

Chad Shad Glide Bait

Choosing the Right Glide Bait: Selecting the appropriate glide bait is crucial for success. Opt for larger-sized baits that closely resemble the forage found in the water body you’re fishing. Consider the color patterns and finishes that imitate the prevalent baitfish species. Additionally, ensure that the bait has a smooth gliding action and good buoyancy to entice big bass.
Understanding the Retrieve: The retrieve is the key to triggering strikes from trophy largemouth bass. Start by casting the glide bait near potential holding areas such as weed edges, submerged structures, or drop-offs. Allow the bait to sink to the desired depth before initiating your retrieve. Once you start retrieving, impart a side-to-side gliding motion by manipulating the rod tip. This action should mimic an injured or fleeing baitfish, enticing the bass to strike.
Timing and Patience: Patience is crucial when fishing with glide baits. Allow the bait to work its magic by giving it enough time to glide through the water column. Largemouth bass are known for their ambush instincts, so it’s essential to give them an opportunity to observe and strike the bait. Vary the speed and cadence of your retrieve to determine the most effective presentation for the day.
Focus on Key Locations: To increase your chances of connecting with trophy bass, focus on high-percentage areas. Look for cover such as submerged vegetation, laydowns, rocks, or any structure that offers hiding spots for big bass. Glide baits excel in open water and can be worked around these areas to provoke a reaction from lurking giants.
Pay Attention to Seasonal Patterns: Understanding seasonal patterns is vital for successful glide bait fishing. In warmer months, bass are often more active and willing to chase down fast-moving prey. Speed up your retrieve and cover a larger area to trigger reaction strikes. In colder months or during the pre-spawn and post-spawn periods, slow down your retrieve and allow the bait to stay in the strike zone longer, tempting the bass to strike.
Experiment with Retrieves and Depths: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different retrieves and depths to figure out what the bass prefer on a particular day. Glide baits can be retrieved at different speeds, including slow, medium, or even fast. Additionally, try adjusting the depth by altering the length of your pause during the retrieve or by using sinking or suspending glide baits.

Fishing glide baits for trophy-sized largemouth bass is an exhilarating and rewarding endeavor. By selecting the right bait, mastering the retrieve, and understanding the key factors that influence bass behavior, you can greatly increase your chances of hooking into a true lunker. Remember to stay patient, adapt to seasonal patterns, and experiment with different techniques to unlock the full potential of glide bait fishing. So, gear up, hit the water, and get ready to tangle with those monstrous largemouth bass!

Top Advances in Fishing Technology Over the Last 50 Years

BassFishingFacts — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 04:42:00 +0000

Over the past 50 years, there have been numerous advances in fishing technology that have revolutionized the way anglers approach the sport. From the development of high-tech sonar systems to advanced rods and reels, these innovations have made it easier than ever to locate, catch, and land fish. In this article, we will discuss some of the top advances in fishing technology over the last half-century.

Electronic Sonar Systems

Perhaps one of the most significant advances in fishing technology over the last 50 years has been the development of high-tech sonar systems. These systems allow anglers to quickly locate fish and underwater structures, such as drop-offs, humps, and ledges. By using sonar, anglers can gain a more detailed understanding of the underwater environment and make more informed decisions about where to fish and what baits to use.

Graphite Fishing Rods

Another key development in fishing technology has been the introduction of graphite fishing rods. These rods are lighter and more sensitive than traditional fiberglass rods, making it easier for anglers to detect bites and feel the movement of their lures. Additionally, graphite rods are more durable and can withstand greater stresses than their fiberglass counterparts, making them an ideal choice for anglers who demand high performance from their gear.

Low-Profile Baitcasting Reels

Low-profile baitcasting reels have also transformed the way anglers approach fishing. These reels are smaller and more compact than traditional round reels, making them easier to handle and more comfortable to use for extended periods. Additionally, low-profile baitcasting reels offer improved accuracy and casting distance, allowing anglers to place their lures more precisely and cover more water.

Advanced Fishing Line

Over the last 50 years, there have been numerous advancements in fishing line technology. Today’s fishing lines are stronger, more durable, and less visible than ever before, making it easier for anglers to land big fish and make more casts. In addition, new types of line, such as braided line and fluorocarbon line, offer unique benefits, such as increased sensitivity and reduced visibility, that can help anglers catch more fish.

Artificial Lures

Finally, artificial lures have undergone significant advancements over the last 50 years. Modern lures are more realistic and lifelike than ever before, making them more effective at fooling fish into striking. Additionally, new materials, such as soft plastics and swimbaits, offer unique swimming actions that can entice even the most finicky fish.

The last 50 years have seen significant advancements in fishing technology that have transformed the way anglers approach the sport. From high-tech sonar systems to advanced rods and reels, these innovations have made it easier than ever to locate, catch, and land fish. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see what new advancements and innovations the future holds for the sport of fishing.

List of Bassmaster Classic Champions

BassFishingFacts — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 03:41:30 +0000

Jordan Lee – 2017 Bassmaster Classic Champion – Sparks Flying After Win.

Year	Bassmaster Classic Champion Angler	Tournament Total Weight lbs oz	Boat Brand	Lake Location
1971	Bobby Murray	43-11	N/A	Lake Mead, NV
1972	Don Butler	38-11	N/A	Percy Priest Reservoir, TN
1973	Rayo Breckenridge	52-8	N/A	Clarks Hill Lake, SC
1974	Tommy Martin	33-7	N/A	Wheeler Lake, AL
1975	Jack Hains	45-4	N/A	Currituck Sound, NC
1976	Rick Clunn	59-15	Ranger	Lake Guntersville, AL
1977	Rick Clunn	27-7	Glastron	Kissimmee Chain, FL
1978	Bobby Murray	37-9	N/A	Ross Barnett Reservoir, MS
1979	Hank Parker	31	N/A	Lake Texoma, TX
1980	Bo Dowden	54-10	N/A	St. Lawrence River, NY
1981	Stanley Mitchell	35-2	Ranger	Alabama River, AL
1982	Paul Elias	32-8	Ranger	Alabama River, AL
1983	Larry Nixon	18-1	Ranger	Ohio River, OH
1984	Rick Clunn	75-9	N/A	Arkansas River, AR
1985	Jack Chancellor	45	Ranger	Arkansas River, AR
1986	Charlie Reed	23-9	Ranger	Tennessee River, TN
1987	George Cochran	15-5	Ranger	Ohio River, OH
1988	Guido Hibdon	28-8	Ranger	James River, VA
1989	Hank Parker	31-6	Ranger	James River, VA
1990	Rick Clunn	34-5	Tracker	James River, VA
1991	Ken Cook	33-2	Javelin	Chesapeake Bay, MD
1992	Robert Hamilton, Jr	59-6	Ranger	Lake Logan Martin, AL
1993	David Fritts	48-6	Ranger	Lake Logan Martin, AL
1994	Bryan Kerchal	36-7	Ranger	High Rock Lake, NC
1995	Mark Davis	47-14	Basscat	High Rock Lake, NC
1996	George Cochran	31-14	Ranger	Lay Lake, AL
1997	Dion Hibdon	34-13	Ranger	Lake Logan Martin, AL
1998	Denny Brauer	46-3	Ranger	High Rock Lake, NC
1999	Davy Hite	55-10	Stratos	Louisiana Delta, LA
2000	Woo Daves	27-13	Nitro	Lake Michigan, IL
2001	Kevin VanDam	32-5	Nitro	Louisiana Delta, LA
2002	Jay Yelas	45-13	Skeeter	Lay Lake, AL
2003	Michael Iaconelli	37-14	Ranger	Louisiana Delta, LA
2004	Takahiro Omori	39-2	Ranger	Lake Wylie, NC
2005	Kevin VanDam	15-Dec	Nitro	Three Rivers, PA
2006	Luke Clausen	56-2	Ranger	Kissimmee Chain, FL
2007	Boyd Duckett	48-10	Triton	Lay Lake, AL
2008	Alton Jones	48-7	Skeeter	Lake Hartwell, SC
2009	Skeet Reese	54-13	Champion	Red River, LA
2010	Kevin VanDam	51-6	Nitro	Lay Lake, AL
2011	Kevin VanDam	69-11	Nitro	Louisiana Delta, LA
2012	Chris Lane	51-6	Legend	Red River, LA
2013	Cliff Pace	54-12	Skeeter	Grand Lake, AL
2014	Randy Howell	67-8	Triton	Lake Guntersville, AL
2015	Casey Ashley	50-1	Triton	Lake Hartwell, SC
2016	Edwin Evers	60-7	Nitro	Grand Lake, OK
2017	Jordan Lee	56-10	Legend	Lake Conroe, TX
2018	Jordan Lee	47-1	Ranger	Lake Hartwell, SC
2019	Ott Defoe	49-3	Nitro	Tennessee River, TN
2020	Hank Cherry	65-5	BassCat	Lake Guntersville, AL
2021	Hank Cherry	50-15	BassCat	Ray Roberts, TX
2022	Jason Christie	54-00	Xpress	Lake Hartwell, SC
2023	Jeff Gustafson	42-7	Lund	Tennessee River, TN

Largemouth Bass Growth Rates: Understanding the Development of a Popular Sportfish

BassFishingFacts — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:24:42 +0000

Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) is a highly sought-after sportfish, known for its strength and fighting ability. This species of fish is native to North America and is widely distributed in many freshwater bodies, including lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. One of the key characteristics of largemouth bass is its rapid growth rate, which has made it a popular species for anglers and fishery managers alike.

Largemouth bass are capable of reaching sizes of over 20 pounds, with a maximum length of over 30 inches. The growth rate of largemouth bass is largely dependent on water temperature, food availability, and the size and age of the fish. In general, largemouth bass in warmer waters will grow faster than those in colder waters. The growth rate also varies greatly among individual fish, with some growing much faster than others.

During the first year of life, largemouth bass can grow to be several inches long. By the time they reach one year old, they can be as long as 10 inches. From there, the growth rate slows down, but they can still grow several inches each year until they reach maturity, which usually occurs between 4-6 years of age. After reaching maturity, the growth rate slows down even more, and the fish will only grow a few inches each year.

In addition to environmental factors, the availability of food plays a significant role in the growth rate of largemouth bass. Fish that have access to an abundant food source will grow faster than those with limited food sources. The size of the prey also influences growth, with larger prey leading to faster growth rates.

Fishery managers often stock largemouth bass in their lakes and reservoirs to provide recreational fishing opportunities. The stocking rate and size of the fish are important factors in the success of the fishery. Larger fish are more likely to survive and grow faster than smaller fish, so stocking larger fish can lead to a faster establishment of a fishery.

Largemouth bass growth rates can vary greatly among individual fish and are influenced by many factors, including water temperature, food availability, and the size and age of the fish. Understanding the growth rates of largemouth bass is important for both anglers and fishery managers, as it can help them make informed decisions about stocking and fishing practices. Whether you’re fishing for sport or managing a fishery, it’s always a good idea to be knowledgeable about the species you’re working with, and the growth rates of largemouth bass are a critical aspect of that knowledge.

How to Catch Spawning Bass

BassFishingFacts — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 02:01:31 +0000

Catching largemouth bass off a bed while they are spawning can be challenging, but can also be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you catch a bass off a bed:

Look for beds: Largemouth bass typically create beds in shallow water, usually around 4 to 6 feet deep, near cover such as logs, rocks, and weed beds. Look for clear water and look for circular depressions on the bottom.
Be stealthy: Largemouth bass are very sensitive to movement and noise, so it is important to be as stealthy as possible when approaching a bed. Use a low profile boat and move slowly, and avoid making any unnecessary noise.
Use the right gear: Use a light rod and reel with 4-8 lb test line, and use a small, subtle lure or bait. A soft plastic worm or a small jig and pig can work well.
Fish the edges of the bed: Bass will often be on the edges of the bed, rather than in the middle. Try casting your lure or bait around the edges of the bed and work it slowly and steadily.
Be patient: Bass can be very finicky when they are spawning, and may not bite right away. Be patient and keep trying different lures and techniques until you find something that works.

Keep in mind that during the spawning period, it’s important to handle the fish carefully, as they are more vulnerable to injury. So, it’s important to use a landing net and wet your hands before handling the fish. Also, make sure to release the fish back into the water as soon as possible after you catch them.

2021 Bassmaster Classic Recap

BassFishingFacts — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:43:49 +0000

The 2021 Bassmaster Classic was held on Lake Ray Roberts in Texas from March 19-21. The winner of the tournament was Hank Cherry, who caught a total of 50 pounds and 15 ounces of fish over the course of the three-day event. He won a cash prize of $300,000 and the title of Bassmaster Classic Champion. The tournament featured a field of 50 professional anglers, and was the first Bassmaster Classic held on Lake Ray Roberts.

2020 Bassmaster Classic Recap

BassFishingFacts — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 01:36:36 +0000

The 2020 Bassmaster Classic, which was held on Lake Guntersville in Alabama, was won by Hank Cherry Jr. He caught a total of 65 pounds, 5 ounces of fish over the three-day tournament, which earned him a prize of $300,000. The tournament was held on March 6-8, 2020 and featured a field of more than 50 of the world’s top professional bass anglers. It was the 50th anniversary of the Bassmaster Classic and was the first time the tournament was held on Lake Guntersville. Hank Cherry Jr. was able to win by using a variety of techniques, including fishing with a vibrating jig and a swimbait, which allowed him to catch fish in a variety of conditions.