VOL. 14 · NO. 25 June 17, 2026 · Bozeman, MT LIVE · 6 RIVERS TRACKED · TOURNAMENTS THIS WEEK
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World Record Walleye: The 25-Pound Catch That Sparked Decades of Controversy

Mabry Harper’s 25-lb walleye was stripped of its world record title—then reinstated in 2019. Here’s why this legendary catch still divides anglers today.

Walleye are definitely a favorite among anglers, with 44 states boasting walleye records. A true trophy walleye weighs over 10 pounds—big, chunky, and pushing 28 inches or more. But the world record is a whole different beast. In 1960, Mabry Harper’s 25-pound, 41-inch walleye caused major controversy, especially since the fish didn’t look that massive in the photos. After years of debate (and losing the title to a 22-pounder from Arkansas), fresh evidence in 2019 restored Harper’s walleye as the undisputed heavyweight champ—an almost mythical catch!

You can also read more about this interesting story here.

Source Info: Wired2Fish


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