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Landing a Record Fish

Bass Pro Roland Martin Offers Tips on Catching an IGFA-certified World-Record Fish

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What You Should Do If You Think You've Caught a World Record
If you catch a fish you think may be worthy of a record (e.g., lake, state, line class), use these tips to ensure your record fish won't get away:

Don't delay!
Remember, don't delay in weighing your fish. There are a number of elements that may cause your fish to lose valuable weight if you wait too long. (The worst mistake is leaving a fish in the sun, which can sap ounces, even pounds, off a fish in no time at all).

Weigh your fish.
Immediately return to shore and weigh the fish on an IGFA-certified scale. If you don't have a certified scale, drive to your nearest bait and tackle shop, they will most likely have a certified scale for your use.

Take pictures.
Photographs are the only way IGFA judges can ensure your catch is real. Take numerous photos of your fish from as many angles as possible. Also, take photographs of your fish being weighed on a scale. Plus, pictures are the best way to convince the toughest judges - your friends!

Line samples.
IGFA judges require that you send at least 50 ft. of the line used to catch your fish. Testing must be done to ensure the class record of the fish. (Different rules apply for fly records. See IGFA "World Record Game Fish" book for more details.)

Entry form.
Once you have your pictures and line samples, fill out the official IGFA record form and send in your documents. To obtain a official rules and an IGFA entry form, call 800/661-9086. Be sure and make copies of all materials sent for your records. Send all final documents to:

IGFA
300 Gulfstream Way
Dania Beach, Florida 33004
To help in the quest to land a world-record fish - or even that mystical "100-year-old bass" from the depths of your local lake - SpiderWire pro staff member and 9-time B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year, Roland Martin, offers a few tips.
   "There are a few simple things that any angler can do to ensure they're spending quality time on the water," says Martin. "One great way to get prepared - as well as build anticipation for any big trip - is to check out fishing reports in local newspapers, outdoor journals, or even on the Internet. These outlets are usually the most accurate way to get the information you need to determine when and where to fish.
   "It's also a great way to see what the fish are biting - especially if you're on a lake or river that's unfamiliar to you."
   Martin also notes that big fish tend to swim in big water. "Although trophy fish can be found in small bodies of water," says Martin, "you generally have a better chance at catching a trophy fish in large lakes, reservoirs or rivers.
   "Once you're on the water," says Martin, "it is essential to use reliable equipment. Even if you're not going for a record, it's frustrating to lose a fish due to equipment failure. Using reliable equipment is one way to remove any doubt that a fish is going to break lose. Manufacturers such as SpiderWire, Mitchell® and Johnson® have been making reliable equipment for years."
   Martin recommends spending a few extra dollars for a new rod or reel, or you may want to use a superline, such as SpiderWire, instead of a monofilament line, particularly when battling large, toothy game fish such as Northern Pike or Muskellunge.
   "In addition, SpiderWire, and other superlines, are useful because they offer extreme sensitivity. With little to no stretch, these lines help anglers feel everything at the end of their line. It's literally like having an extra set of eyes in the water.
   "Another tip that can often be overlooked," adds Martin, "is to be prepared. You never know when a trophy fish is going to tug at your line. Having a camera, net and scale on your boat, as well as knowing where the nearest tackle shop is, will ensure that your fish, and the memorable battle it gave, will never be forgotten.
   "And finally," says Martin, "have patience. There have been many days throughout my career when I didn't have a bite all day. But by staying patient, staying alert and casting effectively, that 'last cast of the day' has turned up some memorable fish.
   "The most important element to fishing," adds Martin, "is to have fun. You won't catch a monster on every cast, but spending a day fishing with friends or loved ones is more important than any record in the book."


All-Tackle World Record Fish

SpeciesWeightPlace
Largemouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Brown Trout
Channel Catfish
Black Crappie
Muskellunge
Northern Pike
Coho Salmon
Steelhead
Walleye
22 lb. 4 oz.
10 lb. 14 oz.
40 lb. 4 oz.
58 lb. 0 oz.
4 lb. 8 oz.
67 lb. 8 oz.
55 lb. 1 oz.
33 lb. 4 oz.
42 lb. 2 oz.
25 lb. 0 oz.
Montgomery Lake, Georgia
Dale Hollow, Tennessee
Little Red River, Arkansas
Santee-Cooper Reservoir, S.C.
Kerr Lake, Virginia
Lake Court Oreilles, Wisconsin
Lake of Grefeern, Germany
Salmon River, New York
Bell Island, Alaska
Old Hickory Lake, Tennessee


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The Next World Record Smallmouth Bass











   




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