West Virginia Angler Breaks State Record with Massive Black Crappie Catch
Sarah Johnson
May 16, 2025
Brief
West Virginia angler Jerry Porter breaks state record with a 17.7-inch, 3.6-pound black crappie at East Lynn Lake, marking the third record of 2025.
In a stunning display of angling prowess, Jerryascape Jerry Porter of Harts, West Virginia, has reeled in a record-breaking black crappie at East Lynn Lake in Wayne County. The 17.7-inch, 3.6-pound fish, caught on a minnow-tipped jig with a 6-pound test line, shattered the previous state record of a 3.15-pound, 17.76-inch crappie set in 2024. According to the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, Porter’s catch marks the third state fishing record broken in 2025, highlighting the Mountain State’s thriving freshwater fisheries.
Black crappies, known for schooling in clear lake waters, typically average 10.8 inches, with the heaviest recorded at six pounds, per the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Porter’s feat underscores the dedication of West Virginia’s anglers, as two others—Jason Floyd and John Plott—also broke state records in April, landing a 5.75-pound redhorse sucker and a 1.60-pound redear sunfish, respectively.
Anglers over 14 must hold a valid West Virginia fishing license to cast their lines in these bountiful waters.
Topics
Editor's Comments
Jerry Porter’s black crappie is so big, it could star in its own fishy blockbuster! Meanwhile, East Lynn Lake’s turning into the Hollywood of fishing records—three in 2025 already? Reel-y impressive!
Like this article? Share it with your friends!
If you find this article interesting, feel free to share it with your friends!
Thank you for your support! Sharing is the greatest encouragement for us.
