A 13-year-old boy from Kemmerer, Wyoming, made headlines after catching a tiger trout at the Viva Naughton Reservoir, breaking a state fishing record. Jaxon Krall landed the impressive fish, which weighed 12.77 pounds, measured 31.25 inches in length, and had a girth of 16.75 inches, according to a press release from the Wyoming Game & Fish Department.
Using a Thomas Buoyant lure, Krall surpassed the previous state record for tiger trout, which was 11.93 pounds, also caught at the same reservoir. Tiger trout are a sterile hybrid of brook trout and brown trout, known for their unique appearance and aggressive nature.
Jaxon’s father, Robert Krall, shared that his son was thrilled not only with catching the fish but also with setting a new state record. Despite his excitement, Jaxon plans to return to the reservoir with hopes of catching another tiger trout, though this time with the intention of releasing it back into the water.
Viva Naughton Reservoir is known for its large Utah chub population, and WGFD officials have stocked tiger trout in hopes of controlling the chub numbers and adding diversity to the fishery. Robb Keith, the Game and Fish fisheries supervisor for the Green River Region, noted that the success of tiger trout in the reservoir is not surprising, as they provide anglers with the chance to catch exceptional fish. Keith also advised that these trout are often found close to shore and structures, feeding on shiners and Utah chubs, and recommended lures and baits that resemble these forage fish.
Image/Source: FoxNews
