Two West Virginia Anglers Make History with Dual Record-Breaking Catches
The Mountain State witnessed an extraordinary day for fishing enthusiasts as two local anglers achieved remarkable feats, shattering existing state records for two different fish species on the very same day. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) proudly announced these impressive accomplishments on May 1st, highlighting the abundance and quality of the state’s fisheries.
The historic day, April 22nd, will forever be etched in the annals of West Virginia fishing lore. Two men, Jason Floyd and John Plott, emerged as champions, each showcasing their angling prowess and intimate knowledge of the state’s waterways.
Jason Floyd’s Redhorse Sucker Triumph
Jason Floyd, a resident of Washington, West Virginia, etched his name into the record books with an exceptional catch at the Belleville Lock and Dam on the mighty Ohio River. Floyd successfully reeled in a magnificent redhorse sucker, measuring an impressive 24.57 inches in length and weighing a substantial 5.75 pounds.
The WVDNR lauded Floyd’s achievement, noting that he skillfully employed a FloBell Bottom Tackle swimbait and jighead, paired with a sturdy 10-pound braided line, to entice the record-breaking fish. This victory marks Floyd as the inaugural angler to claim the state record for redhorse sucker since the WVDNR officially recognized the species in its record categories earlier in 2024.
The addition of the redhorse sucker to the state’s record-eligible species reflects the WVDNR’s commitment to acknowledging the diversity of West Virginia’s aquatic ecosystems. This decision opens the door for anglers to target a wider range of fish, further enriching the state’s fishing culture and promoting responsible angling practices.
John Plott’s Redear Sunfish Repeat
On the same day, John Plott, an Oak Hill resident, achieved his own remarkable feat, securing his place in West Virginia fishing history for the second time. Plott landed a sizable redear sunfish, measuring 12.44 inches in length and weighing 1.60 pounds. This catch established a new state record for redear sunfish length, adding to Plott’s already impressive fishing resume.
Notably, Plott held the previous state record for redear sunfish weight, with a fish weighing 1.75 pounds. While his latest catch did not surpass this weight, it did break the record for length, further solidifying his dominance in redear sunfish angling.
Plott’s successful outing occurred at Plum Orchard Lake in Fayette County, a popular destination for anglers seeking a serene and productive fishing experience. He attributed his success to the use of a classic nightcrawler, a tried-and-true bait that has proven effective in attracting a variety of fish species.
WVDNR Commends Anglers and Celebrates Fishing Heritage
Brett McMillion, director of the WVDNR, expressed his enthusiasm and pride in the anglers’ accomplishments. "I am thrilled to recognize Mr. Floyd and Mr. Plott for their outstanding achievements," McMillion stated. "These records highlight the incredible fishing opportunities available across West Virginia as well as the dedication and passion of our anglers."
McMillion emphasized the importance of recognizing the breadth of West Virginia’s fisheries. "Establishing new record categories was an important step in honoring the diversity of our fisheries, and we look forward to seeing more milestones like these in the future," he added.
A Wave of Record-Breaking Catches
The achievements of Floyd and Plott are part of a broader trend of record-breaking catches in West Virginia and across the nation. In recent months, anglers have been pushing the limits, reeling in impressive specimens that challenge existing records and demonstrate the potential for exceptional fishing experiences.
Last summer, for example, a Texas angler caught a massive 71-pound smallmouth buffalo in Austin’s Lady Bird Lake, showcasing the remarkable size that some fish species can attain.
The increasing frequency of record-breaking catches may be attributed to a combination of factors, including improved fisheries management practices, enhanced angling techniques, and a growing awareness of the importance of protecting aquatic habitats.
The WVDNR plays a vital role in ensuring the health and sustainability of West Virginia’s fisheries through diligent monitoring, habitat restoration projects, and the implementation of responsible fishing regulations. These efforts contribute to the overall quality of the fishing experience and help to maintain healthy fish populations for future generations to enjoy.
The dual record-breaking catches by Jason Floyd and John Plott serve as a testament to the dedication of West Virginia anglers, the quality of the state’s fisheries, and the ongoing efforts to promote responsible angling practices. These achievements inspire other anglers to explore the state’s waterways, hone their skills, and contribute to the rich fishing heritage of the Mountain State. As the WVDNR continues to expand its record categories and support the angling community, the future of fishing in West Virginia looks brighter than ever.
