A fishing trip that began as a routine practice session transformed into a historic event for twin brothers Trace and Levi Loe on February 1st, marking the first entries into Arkansas's new Legacy Lunker Program from DeGray Lake. The brothers, hailing from South Arkansas, ventured to the 13,800-acre Caddo River reservoir, a location they don't typically frequent during this period. However, their proactive decision to pre-fish for an upcoming competition paid off handsomely, as they reeled in approximately 30 smaller fish before Trace made his monumental catch. The introduction of the Arkansas Legacy Lunker Program on January 1st by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) aims to improve the state's trophy fish potential. This initiative involves selectively breeding large, trophy-class fish with genetically superior Titan MAXX bass from the Red Hills Hatchery, known for their rapid growth. To qualify for the Legacy Lunker Club, a largemouth bass must exceed 10 pounds and be caught between January 1st and March 31st using a rod and reel in public waters managed by the AGFC. Trace's catch, an 11.16-pound, 24.5-inch bass, was not only the fifth lunker recorded by the program but also the first from DeGray Lake and the first for the month of February, setting a new benchmark for the lake.
The day's excitement continued after Trace's significant catch. While awaiting the arrival of Will Lancett, the program coordinator, the brothers decided to continue fishing. This decision led to Levi landing an even more remarkable specimen: a 12.63-pound largemouth bass, measuring an impressive 26.25 inches, which became the program's sixth lunker. Despite the unfortunate discovery of the second fish's poor health, evidenced by fungal spots and lethargy, Lancett noted the scientific value of examining even deceased or ineligible fish. Analysis of Levi's bass revealed it to be 13 years old, a rare age for a largemouth in the Southern region, providing valuable data for fisheries management. Trace expressed profound satisfaction with their experience, commending the program officials for their dedication to fish conservation and their supportive communication. The program's success is not only attributed to the AGFC's efforts but also to the valuable insights gained from the well-established Toyota ShareLunker Program in Texas, which served as a crucial model. This collaborative approach underscores a shared commitment to enhancing recreational fishing and promoting sustainable practices across state lines.
The enthusiastic public reception of the Arkansas Legacy Lunker Program is a testament to its potential to foster a deeper connection between anglers and conservation. The positive feedback from the fishing community, including the memorable "thumbs up" from a fellow enthusiast on the highway, highlights the widespread excitement and support for initiatives that aim to preserve and enhance natural resources. Such programs not only provide thrilling opportunities for anglers to engage with nature but also instill a sense of responsibility towards environmental stewardship. By encouraging the reporting of trophy catches, these initiatives contribute vital data for scientific research, allowing for better management and protection of fish populations. Ultimately, the success of the Legacy Lunker Program, as exemplified by the Loe brothers' extraordinary day, reinforces the idea that human endeavors, when aligned with conservation principles, can lead to remarkable achievements and inspire a collective commitment to a healthier planet.