Two Anglers Catch State Record Black Crappie Within Hours of Each Other

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. (Gray News) – Two anglers fishing together have caught state record black crappie for length and weight in West Virginia.

According to the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, Lindell Marker caught a 17.36-inch black crappie at Woodrum Lake on Aug. 8, surpassing the previous length record of 17.32 inches set by Craig Webb. Marker’s catch tied the existing weight record of 2.85 pounds, also held by Webb.

About an hour later, Dwight Priestley caught a 17.76-inch, 3.15-pound black crappie, surpassing Marker’s recently held record and setting new records for length and weight.

“I am thrilled to celebrate this unprecedented fishing achievement and hope these new credentials will inspire anglers from around the world to come explore West Virginia’s world-class fishing opportunities,” said West Virginia Governor Jim Justice.

The record-breaking sunfish were caught using live minnows.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of Lindell Marker and Dwight Priestley. Their catches not only set new standards, but also highlight the quality of our state’s fisheries,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion.

With these catches, the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources has reported eight record catches so far in 2024.