New State Record Largemouth Bass Certified in Tennessee
A remarkable achievement in sport fishing has been officially acknowledged, as the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has confirmed a new state record for largemouth bass. This significant catch, made by Darren Nunley on February 28, weighed an astounding 15 pounds, 7.5 ounces, and extended to 27 7/8 inches. This new benchmark officially surpasses the previous record, which had remained unbroken for over a decade, following thorough genetic analysis completed on May 9 to verify the species.
The story behind this record-breaking catch unfolds on Tennessee's Nickajack Lake, where Nunley, accompanied by experienced bass guide Hensley Powell, embarked on an early morning fishing trip. Guided by Powell's knowledge of a promising shallow grass bed where he had previously observed large bass, Nunley utilized a Z-Man JackHammer Chatterbait, tipped with a Hog Farmer Spunk Shad plastic trailer. After about an hour of fishing, around 8:30 a.m., Nunley's cast led to a powerful strike, which Powell initially mistook for snagged grass. Upon realizing the immense size of the fish after it surfaced, both anglers recognized the potential for a state record. The bass was skillfully netted by Powell, and its exceptional dimensions left Nunley in disbelief.
Recognizing the fish's potential record status, Powell promptly contacted the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for guidance on the official certification process. Following their instructions, the anglers transported the impressive bass to be weighed, where three separate measurements confirmed its official weight. Powell reflected on the moment, suggesting that this extraordinary catch was a blessing for Nunley, who, despite his passion, doesn't often have the opportunity to fish. This event not only marks a new chapter in Tennessee's fishing records but also celebrates the thrill of unexpected triumphs in the natural world.