The Not-So Big One: Record Bass Caught Illegally
By: KARK 4 News
Updated: March 10, 2012
The Arkansas Game & Fish Commission says a Forrest City man's massive fish was caught illegally two weeks ago on Lake Dunn.
An investigation by the AGFC found Paul Crowder's fishing license was purchased roughly three hours after he claims to have caught the bass. Investigators say his license expired in April 2011. Under AGFC regulations, it is illegal for any person 16 years of age or older to fish without possessing a current Arkansas fishing license. State record-fish rules require that an angler hold a valid license at the time of the catch.
Crowder's fish weighed 16 pounds, 5 ounces. The catch would have broken the record by an ounce.
"At this time, we are still confident in the size and weight of the fish and proud that such a monster was produced in Arkansas waters," AGFC Chief of Fisheries Mark Oliver said in a news release.
Crowder has been charged with fishing without a license. He faces up to a $1,000 fine and up to 30 days in jail. Crowder has a court hearing March 19 in Wynne District Court.
Related Links:
View Larger Map
