I was given copies of all the CT DEP Trophy fish records from 1965 through 1984 as well as 1985, 1987, 1988 and 1989 for all species. I realize that the data is from some time ago and that many trophy (OVER 6 POUND) largemouth bass are not registered with the DEP. I offer the following summary solely for informational purposes based on the data I was given:

Total Trophy Largemouth Bass over 6 pounds caught during those years: 1179

Of those 1179 Trophy Largemouth Bass, here is what comprises those totals:

6 pounds and over, but less than 7: 765 (65%)

7 pounds and over, but less than 8: 242 (26%)

8 pounds and over, but less than 9: 83 (7%)

9 pounds and over, but less than 10: 14 (1%)

10 pounds and over, but less than 11: 2

11 pounds and over, but less than 12: 1

12 pounds and over: 0

The data suggests that 91% of the trophy largemouth bass caught and registered in CT are under 8 pounds and that 98% of the trophy largemouth bass are under 9 pounds. Registered bass over 9 pounds only make up about 1.5% of the total.

My take on this is that the data suggests that verified largemouth of over 8 pounds are very tough to come by, and that 9, 10 and 11 pound bass caught in Connecticut waters are truly the bass of a lifetime.

I wish everyone well in their quest for trophy bass. I'd love to see more 9, 10, and 11 pound bass caught and released. It only takes one cast with the right bait into the right spot, at the right time...


Huskybass