Two New State Fish Records Caught in West Virginia

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Governor Jim Justice announced that the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) reported two state record fish were caught in June, a black crappie and a red-eared sunfish.

“With these record catches, anglers continue to show the world that West Virginia is truly a world-class fishing destination,” Justice said. “I want to commend the anglers who made these incredible catches for inspiring the rest of us to get out and enjoy the thrill of casting lines in our state’s truly amazing waters.”

Craig Webb of Gandeeville caught a 2.85-pound, 17.32-inch black crappie on a baby shad jig at Woodrum Lake in Jackson County. The catch, verified by WVDNR Assistant Fisheries Biologist Cory Hartman, is the first record for the black crappie category since it was added to the state record list in January 2024.

John Plott of Oak Hill caught a 1.75-pound, 12-inch red-eared sunfish on an earthworm at Plum Orchard Lake in Fayette County. The catch, verified by WVDNR fisheries biologist Joel Slabe, is the first record for the red-eared sunfish category, which was also added to the state record list in January 2024.

“We are excited to celebrate these new state records,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “These accomplishments are a testament to the quality of our fisheries and the success of our conservation efforts. We encourage all anglers to explore the many fishing opportunities throughout West Virginia.”

Both record fish were caught in lakes where the WVDNR fish management team conducts tagging studies. The record bluegill was tagged last year at Woodrum Lake. WVDNR’s fish tagging program helps biologists better manage the state’s fish population and improve angler satisfaction by providing information on fish movements, population numbers, harvest rates, size selectivity and growth rates.

WVDNR offers rewards, including Cabela’s gift cards, to anglers who report tagged fish. If you catch a tagged fish in a West Virginia waterway, call the number on the tag, your local WVDNR district office or email [email protected] and provide the following information:

• Species
• Tag number
• Date of capture
• Location of the catch (if a river, include the nearest landmark)
• Was the fish caught or released? (if released, indicate if the tag was removed)
• Name of the fisherman
• Address
• Phone number

For more information on fishing in West Virginia, state fishing records or to purchase a fishing license, visit WVdnr.gov.