Recently, two fortunate fishermen from West Virginia set two state records on the same day.
The West Virginia Department of Natural Resources (WVDNR) announced on May 1 that these records were established on April 22.
They pertain to two different fish species: the red horse sucker and the redear sunfish.
Resident Jason Floyd caught a 24.57-inch, 5.75-pound red horse sucker at Bellville Rock and Dam on the Ohio River.
According to WVDNR, he hooked the fish using a 10-pound braided line with Frobel’s bottom tackle swimbait and a gyhead.
Later that same day, John Plott added his name to the records by reeling in a redear sunfish weighing 1.60 pounds and measuring 12.44 inches.
This catch also marked a new record for the state.
Floyd’s record-breaking fish was caught with night crawlers at Plum Orchard Lake in Fayette County.
WVDNR Director Brett McMillion expressed delight at Floyd and Plott’s accomplishments, noting the importance of these milestones.
“We look forward to seeing more milestones like this in the future.”
Officials remarked that these records showcase the exceptional fishing opportunities available in West Virginia, along with the enthusiasm of local anglers.
McMillion also highlighted the significance of introducing a new record category, praising the diversity of the state’s fisheries.
Floyd is now the first angler to set a record for the red horse sucker since the category was created in 2024, according to WVDNR.
In the past year, multiple record-breaking catches have made headlines, including a 71-pound smallmouth buffalo caught last summer at Lady Bird Lake in Austin.
