News Summary
The 2025 Toyota ShareLunker Program successfully concluded another season, celebrating five years of achievements with a total of 14 Legacy Class Lunkers caught across nine public lakes in Texas. Leading the effort, O.H. Ivie Lake accounted for six of the entries, with notable catches including a 14.05-pound bass at Lady Bird Lake. Anglers are encouraged to participate in the program, which not only recognizes significant catches but also supports bass population management, promoting conservation and heritage in Texas fishing.
Texas Celebrates a Fishing Milestone with Record Lunkers
Texas anglers have made waves this fishing season as the 2025 Toyota ShareLunker Program successfully concluded, marking another impressive year in the ongoing legacy of fishing in the state. This year, the program celebrated five consecutive successful seasons, highlighting the skill and enthusiasm of local fishers.
A Grand Total of 14 Legacy Class Lunkers
During the most recent collection season, a total of 14 Legacy Class ShareLunkers were caught across nine public lakes in Texas. Anglers showcased their talents at renowned fishing spots including O.H. Ivie, Richland-Chambers, Lady Bird Lake, J.B. Thomas, Alan Henry, Lake Tawakoni, Sam Rayburn, Lake Tyler, and Toledo Bend.
O.H. Ivie Takes the Spotlight
O.H. Ivie Lake stood out in this season’s accomplishments, contributing a remarkable six of the 14 entries. The first Legacy Class catch was made early in the year by an angler at O.H. Ivie who reeled in a 13.13-pound bass, setting an inspiring tone for the season.
Record-Breaking Moments
A standout achievement this year includes Willie Pipkin’s catch of a 14.05-pound bass at Lady Bird Lake on February 5, establishing a new record for that location. Such remarkable catches highlight both the exceptional quality of Texas waters and the abilities of local anglers.
Making Memories, Catching Twice
In an extraordinary twist, angler Ross Gomez managed to catch the same bass on two separate occasions over two years. Other anglers, including Brady Stanford, Terry Scott, and Mechelda Criswell, also celebrated their second Legacy Class Lunker catches, demonstrating the wealth of fishing opportunities available in Texas.
Exciting Days by the Lakes
March 22 proved to be an exciting day, with both Lake Tyler and Sam Rayburn producing double catches of lunker-sized bass. Such thrilling events reflect the passion and excitement surrounding the sport of fishing, showcasing Texas’s rich fishing culture.
Joining the ShareLunker Family
For those wishing to participate in the Toyota ShareLunker Program, anglers are encouraged to submit data for bass that weigh over eight pounds or are at least 24 inches long. The program includes multiple classes of recognition, such as the Bass Pro Shops Lunker Class (8 lb.+), Strike King Elite Class (10 lb.+), and Lew’s Legend Class (13 lb.+).
Winning Prizes and Recognition
The ShareLunker Program also offers a variety of rewards and recognitions for participants, including the chance to win a $5,000 shopping spree at Bass Pro Shops, incentivizing more anglers to engage in the program and enhance their fishing experiences.
Genetic Insights for Better Bass
Additionally, the program encourages anglers to provide DNA samples from their catches, which supports important bass population management efforts. Collaborating with partners such as Toyota, AFTCO, and Bass Pro Shops, the program aims to improve the health and size of Texas’s prized largemouth bass.
A Legacy of Conservation
Sparking a legacy of conservation since 1986, the ShareLunker initiative has facilitated the stocking of approximately 1.9 million ShareLunker offspring into Texas lakes. The introduction of Florida bass in 1972 played a crucial role in elevating Texas’s status as a top destination for trophy-sized bass fishing, a legacy that continues to evolve and flourish.
Catch the Excitement!
With the kickoff of the 39th ShareLunker season on January 1, 2025, excitement continues to thrive among anglers statewide. Local fishers are encouraged to participate in this thriving tradition of conservation while enjoying Texas’s remarkable fishing heritage. So grab your fishing gear, venture out onto the waters, and see if you can land your very own ShareLunker!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Beaumont Enterprise
- Wikipedia: Fishing
- Sports Illustrated
- Google Search: Texas ShareLunker Program
- Outdoor Life
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bass Fishing
- Houston Chronicle
- Google News: Texas fishing news
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
