I know there have been a couple of topics about fish growth rates, age, etc.  But I have not been able to figure out an answer to the following question.  I only fish in 2 places.  First is a neighborhood "retention" pond that is 14 acres, some call that a lake.  I don't know the real age of the lake.  I also fish in a 50 acre lake that is about 50 years old.  Both of these lakes are in Indiana.  So, with known growth rates in this area, age of the lake, etc.  Do DD fish actually exist in these lakes?

The reason I ask is because let's say the largest fish that should be in there would be around 8 pounds, I would feel great if I got a 7 pounder.  However if the largest fish that should be in there was 12 pounds then if I got the same 7 pounder I would.... well I would still feel great, just not as great   ;D

Since you live in Indiana, I'd say the short answer is, No.

For practical purposes, DD fish are almost entirely a southern phenomenon.

Be VERY pleased with a 7lber.

The State Record is 14 lbs 12 oz (1991).

There is a chance you can catch a 10+, but that's a prize in most

states. The likelihood of landing one yourself in Indiana is small.

To improve your odds, Texas, Georgia. Florida and California

are the best options. Specifically, Stick Marsh/ Farm 13 (FL),

Falcon, Amistad, Toledo Bend (TX) and Varner (GA) are probably

your best bets for public lakes.

8-)

I don't think most people in the midwest realize how rare a true 10 pounder is. There was a conservation agent in Central Illinois who electro-shocked lakes for decades and the largest bass he ever held was 9 pounds.

I fished with a guide on Table Rock in Missouri. This man fishes everyday on a one of the top bass fisheries in the midwest, and he told me his PB was 8.75lbs.  

I say celebrate anything over 5 or 6 pounds. I know I do.

If you live outside CA, TX or Mexico a 10 pounder is probably a once a lifetime fish.  A 7+ is truely a nice fish to be proud of.

Sorry the law of averages says no. Go far west or deep south to get your dream fish.

That is what I figured, thanks for the replies.   I guess I should be happy with the 3 fish over 5 and 1 fish over 6 that I have caught year!  

That is what I figured, thanks for the replies.   I guess I should be happy with the 3 fish over 5 and 1 fish over 6 that I have caught year!  

You should be thats great

depends on the food sources as well.  The 9.5 in my avatar came out of a 6 acre pond.  Lots of food in there.