The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has confirmed two new state fishing records set in April, marking notable achievements for anglers and reflecting the diversity of the state’s fisheries.
Jason Floyd of Washington, W.Va., established a new state record for redhorse sucker after landing a 24.57-inch, 5.75-pound specimen on April 22 at the Belleville Lock and Dam on the Ohio River. Floyd used a FloBell Bottom Tackle swimbait paired with a jighead and 10-pound braided line. His catch is the first redhorse sucker record since the species was added to the WVDNR’s official record list in 2024. The record was verified by District 6 Fisheries Biologist Nate Taylor.
Also on April 22, John Plott of Oak Hill, W.Va., broke his own length record for redear sunfish. His 12.44-inch, 1.60-pound catch came from Plum Orchard Lake in Fayette County using a nightcrawler. While this sets a new length mark, Plott still holds the state’s weight record for the species at 1.75 pounds.
WVDNR Director Brett McMillion praised the accomplishments: “These records highlight both the outstanding angling talent across our state and the exceptional fishing opportunities West Virginia offers.”
The redhorse sucker’s addition to the official record list was part of a broader initiative to recognize more of the state’s freshwater species. Four other fish were added to the program in 2024, expanding the WVDNR’s commitment to celebrating biodiversity in local waters.
Image/Source: mybuckhannon
