Montana’s fishing scene is buzzing with excitement following the capture of a potential state record smallmouth bass. Josh Johnson, an experienced angler, landed an impressive 8.4-pound smallmouth, which is now poised to become the new state record. This monumental catch occurred during a fishing trip with the Swate Fishing crew, turning an already successful outing into an unforgettable adventure.
The Pursuit of a Record
For many anglers, catching a state record fish is a dream. For Johnson, that dream came tantalizingly close when he hooked the massive bass. Reflecting on the moment, Johnson shared with the crew that achieving a state record had been a long-standing goal. As the fish was reeled in, the realization of its significance began to sink in.
“It was a goal to catch and release a state record, and we got it done,” Johnson remarked, clearly thrilled by the accomplishment.
A Day of Success Before the Big Moment
Before landing the potential record-breaker, the fishing trip had already exceeded expectations. Johnson and the Swate Fishing team had a productive day on the water, boasting a total haul of over 30 pounds of smallmouth bass. A variety of techniques were used, including Nishine Lure Works Smeltheads, Ned rigs, football jigs, and drop shots, contributing to the crew’s remarkable success. Spirits were high as they celebrated their sizable catches, unaware that the day’s true highlight was still to come.
It wasn’t until Johnson switched to a football jig on a Swate Fishing Brigade Black Label 7’3” medium heavy rod that the excitement reached its peak. The magic moment arrived when the 8.4-pound, 22.4-inch long smallmouth bass latched onto a 3/4-ounce football jig. Johnson described the adrenaline rush that followed as the fish bolted toward the boat. Upon seeing the scale tip past 8 pounds, Johnson was overwhelmed with excitement.
A Personal Best for the Whole Team
The crew’s total catch for the day amounted to an impressive 33.35 pounds, a personal best for everyone involved. The sense of accomplishment was palpable as they celebrated not only their own achievements but also Johnson’s historic catch.
Johnson took a moment to express gratitude for the support of friends and family, with a special mention of Cody Roland, who has spent countless hours fishing this body of water. Roland’s knowledge and experience likely played a key role in the group’s success.
The Release of a Legend
After capturing the historic moment on film and ensuring a proper weigh-in, it was time to release the legendary smallmouth back into the water. True to his commitment to conservation and the health of the fishery, Johnson released the 8-pounder, giving another angler the chance to experience a similar thrill in the future. The fish swam off strong, ensuring that its legacy would live on for years to come.
A New Record in the Making
Johnson’s catch is poised to break the previous Montana state record for smallmouth bass, which was set in 2021 by Theron Thompson. That fish, caught in Fort Peck Reservoir, weighed 7.84 pounds and measured 22 inches long. Johnson’s fish not only surpasses that weight but also boasts a slightly larger length, further solidifying its place as a remarkable achievement in Montana’s angling history.
As word of the catch spreads, the fishing community is eagerly awaiting the official recognition of the new record. Whether or not the catch is formally recorded, Johnson’s accomplishment will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight in Montana’s fishing world. Many are already speculating about the future of smallmouth fishing in the state, with hopes that a 9-pounder could be caught in the near future.
Montana’s Smallmouth Bass: A Growing Legacy
Smallmouth bass have become an increasingly popular target for anglers in Montana, especially in waters like Fort Peck Reservoir, where the previous record was set. These fish are known for their fighting spirit and resilience, making them a favorite among sport fishers. Montana, with its vast network of lakes and rivers, offers prime smallmouth habitats, and the state’s smallmouth bass fishery has been on the rise in recent years.
The possibility of catching a state record has only added to the allure of smallmouth fishing in Montana. Anglers from across the country are drawn to the state’s pristine waters, hoping to experience the thrill of reeling in one of these powerful fish. As more anglers take to the water, the excitement surrounding the smallmouth fishery continues to grow.
The Gear Behind the Catch
Johnson’s record-breaking catch was the result of skill, experience, and the right gear. His use of a football jig on a Swate Fishing Brigade Black Label 7’3” medium heavy rod proved to be the key to landing the 8.4-pound smallmouth. Football jigs are a popular choice for targeting bass, especially in rocky or uneven underwater terrain. The design of the jig allows it to mimic the movements of crayfish or other bottom-dwelling prey, making it an irresistible target for bass.
The combination of technique and the right equipment helped Johnson achieve what many anglers dream of: a once-in-a-lifetime catch. For those looking to replicate his success, investing in high-quality gear and mastering the use of football jigs can be a step in the right direction.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Montana’s Smallmouth Fishery
As Johnson’s catch sparks renewed interest in Montana’s smallmouth bass fishery, many are hopeful that the state will continue to produce trophy-sized fish in the coming years. Conservation efforts, including catch-and-release practices and careful management of fish populations, have helped maintain healthy ecosystems in many of the state’s lakes and rivers.
The possibility of a 9-pound smallmouth emerging from Montana’s waters has anglers excited, with some speculating that it could happen as early as 2027. Whether or not that prediction comes true, one thing is certain: Montana’s smallmouth bass fishery is thriving, and anglers like Johnson are leading the way in showcasing the state’s potential for record-breaking catches.
A Catch for the Ages
Josh Johnson’s 8.4-pound smallmouth bass is more than just a potential state record—it’s a testament to the thrill and rewards of sport fishing. As Montana’s fishing community celebrates this incredible achievement, the story of Johnson’s catch will undoubtedly inspire others to pursue their own “catch of a lifetime.” With Montana’s waters teeming with opportunities, the next big fish could be just a cast away.
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
