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State Record Update – Spring 2023

By Daryl Bauer

I have not given a state record update since last year’s summary.  Right now I do not have a lot to update, but I never know when applications will come in.  If I wait for more, it could be months before I do an update.  So, might as well tell you about what I have. . . .

Back in April, Chuck Hensel from Valentine was fishing Merritt Reservoir.  He caught a common carp that beat the old state record by over four and a half pounds!  Chuck’s record fish was over 40 inches long and weighed in at 39 pounds 8 ounces.

Man with 2023 state record common carp.

That was a big fish, but he caught it on the smallest of baits, a wax worm!  I keep telling anglers, wax worms ain’t just for ice-fishing!

I have been hearing a lot of great fishing reports and seeing photos of some really nice fish.  I have heard a story or two about fish that might have been state record class, but the application for that big common carp is the only official entry I have seen.

Nevertheless, I always mention this when I blog about state record fish:  You can see the complete list of Nebraska state records HERE.  Also, you really should take a minute to read the state record rules which you can find in any copy of the Fishing Guide.  You never really know what is going to be on the end of your line when you get that next bite!

Congratulations, Chuck!  Your state record certificate will be coming in the mail.