A 72-year-old angler from Ohio has broken the state record for striped bass with a massive 37.375-pound catch. George Bruggeman and his son were fishing at Kiser Lake, a 400-acre reservoir in Champaign County, when Bruggeman landed the monster fish.
The Catch
Bruggeman was using a medium-action spinning rod and 8-pound test line with a small #1 hook baited with a nightcrawler. He cast the line into the water and waited for a bite. When the fish took the bait, Bruggeman set the hook and was dragged around the lake for 20 minutes before finally landing the fish.
The Record
The fish measured 41.81 inches in length and 27.36 inches in girth, surpassing the previous Ohio record of 37.10 pounds set in 1993. Bruggeman took the fish to a certified scale at a feed store in New Carlisle, where it was officially weighed and measured. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources confirmed the catch, and Bruggeman’s fish is now recognized as the new state record holder.
A Legendary Catch
Bruggeman plans to have the fish mounted and displayed in his home. The catch is a testament to Bruggeman’s fishing skills and experience, and it’s a story that will be remembered for years to come.
Fishing Tips
If you’re looking to catch striped bass like Bruggeman’s record-breaking fish, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use the right bait: Nightcrawlers are a popular bait for striped bass, and they can be effective in a variety of fishing conditions.
- Choose the right tackle: A medium-action spinning rod and 8-pound test line are good choices for striped bass.
- Be prepared for a fight: Striped bass are known for their strong fighting ability, so be prepared for a battle when you hook one.
Get Out on the Water
If you’re an avid angler or just looking to try your hand at catching a record-breaking fish, Kiser Lake is definitely worth a visit. With its abundant fish population and scenic surroundings, it’s a great spot to spend a day on the water. Who knows, you might just catch the fish of a lifetime.
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
