1992 I caught what would have been the lake record white crappie for Ray Roberts. We were night fishing and had caught several huge fish. We only weighed one at the local Albertsons deli when we got back to Plano. 16" long, 3.25#. I have it on the wall and my kids, who grew up with it, call it Mr Fish. In '92, life was not as connected and getting a lake record recognized was a considerable process. Fast forward to today, I would definitely turn any fish I thought was a record.

I don't fish for records but I do fish for big fish most of the time.

Did it once for a water body record, took 3 days to locate a certified scale fish had shrunk and lost some weight kept on ice. just wouldn't do it again not really worth the trouble. But a state record bass or share a Lunker. Maybe yeah I would.

I try to specifically target the biggest fish possible, not with the intent to set a waterbody or state record but to set my own records! I've got a certified scale but it's only to ensure the most accurate weight possible. Don't want to miss out on even a few ounces if it might be a PB, lol. One thing to note in my case - for Rough Fish like Carp, Buffalo, Gar, etc. which I target more than all others, there are no regulations and they may be taken with means that I personally disagree with. Turning in a record draws attention to that body of water and the fish ultimately pay the price. Doesn't fit with my Catch, Photo, and Release mentality. After all, I don't use my protective mat, weigh sling, and antibacterial spray so that someone else can come and kill the fish I'm trying to capture again at a heavier weight!

TX Multi, I wouldn't worry about bowfishermen following your records to find big fish.... Every time we go out any record you have is beaten from my boat, with the exception of koi. Pretty much any lake in North Texas has huge fish, it's just a matter of knowing them and where they will be that time of year. Examples are shallow spawning flats in spring, on points with deep drops heat of summer, on rock to stay warm in winter after a warming trend, etc. And with a fan boat you can just keep covering water until you find them.
In addition, I personally prefer to shoot lakes without a lot of houses and docks on them to avoid conflict with property owners. The fan is loud and the HPS lights are very bright. Although I enjoy the sport, I also don't want to ruin anyone else's time on the water.
Not trying to start an argument, just letting you know. Post your water body records, it has zero effect on when and where most of us choose to shoot.

There are some great posts here. This is just what I am looking for. Thanks to all of you that have replied so far. Currently the majority of the anglers don't think catching records is worth the time. Fish Chaser congratulations on all your fly fishing records. One thing to remember is that Texas has an excellent catch and release record program. The catch and release program is based on length, so you do not have to kill the fish to document a record. You do not need a scale, only a measuring device. As an added bonus, each fish may qualify for a big fish award, and if you get 5 of those you can become a Texas Elite Angler. As an elite angler, you get a nice certificate. Although most of you probably don't care, the certificate looks nice hanging on the wall lol. Keep the posts coming, I am taking notes.

caught a salt water record once, never submitted it though.

I want to catch a 29 pound largemouth bass, ....

Me too! I would like to have another IGFA All-Tackle World Record .

Not worth the effort unless it is a ShareLunker or similar. I caught a Redear earlier in the summer that would have been a water body record, but not worth the time to track down a certified scale and go through the certification process.

Don't forget about the TPWD catch and release records. They are based on length and you don't need to find a scale.