Sam Rayburn and Lake Tyler Shine with a Double Lunker Day
Texas celebrated a remarkable day for bass fishing as Sam Rayburn Reservoir and Lake Tyler produced two Legacy Class largemouth bass entries on the same day for the Toyota ShareLunker program. These catches, the first of the 2025 collection season for both waterbodies, drew attention from anglers and conservation enthusiasts alike.
Zach Fogle of White Oak kicked off the day by catching a 13.11-pound bass, designated ShareLunker 678, during a tournament at Sam Rayburn. Later, Jason James of Whitehouse followed with a 13.20-pound bass, ShareLunker 679, at Lake Tyler. These catches brought the season’s total to ten Legacy Class entries from eight different Texas reservoirs, with O.H. Ivie holding the lead for the most entries this season.
The Toyota ShareLunker program, coordinated by Natalie Goldstrohm, is instrumental in promoting bass conservation and enhancing fishing opportunities in Texas. Goldstrohm highlighted the importance of participation from anglers across the state and noted the excitement generated by events like the Bassmaster Classic and the recent double lunker day.
Both Fogle and James shared their experiences and expressed appreciation for the ShareLunker program. Fogle described the thrill of reeling in his personal best catch, while James recounted the seamless process of submitting his record-breaking bass. The program ensures fish are carefully handled and transported, contributing to selective breeding and conservation efforts led by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).
Anglers who catch Legacy Class bass weighing over 13 pounds have the opportunity to loan their catches to the program for research and breeding. Participants receive rewards, including replicas of their catches, merchandise, and entries into drawings for prizes such as a $5,000 shopping spree.
The Toyota ShareLunker program operates year-round, offering additional recognition for catches exceeding eight pounds or 24 inches. These efforts contribute valuable data to TPWD’s fisheries research and help support the state’s reputation as a premier destination for bass fishing.
For more information, anglers can visit TexasSharelunker.com or follow the program on social media.
On the Dock with Rick Smith
Presented by Marine Outlet of Temple, Texas, your “Just Add Water” boat dealership. Join me, Rick Smith for On the Dock, the boats and boating, fish and fishing show on KNCT every Wednesday and Friday at 6:15pm. We are your source for the latest news and events involving the great Texas outdoors.
KNCT 