Hey all. I have been reading all this on your forums for a while but haven't posted yet. First, let me say Hi. I have all the current info on this topic at my site for anyone who wants to take a look. I have a contact in Japan also, and I am waiting for the next reports to come in. Someone said "Is It Real" and others questioned it as well. I will tell you now that IT IS REAL!!! lol.
A Complete Gallery of ALL of the most UP TO DATE photos of this bass are available here in the gallery at
http://www.delawaretrophybass.com/apps/photos/album?albumid=6437320Congrats to the angler on a fine catch.
Lake Biwa shocked the bass world a couple years ago by producing a bass that was well over 18 pounds (The Japan record was caught at Lake Ikehara, and weighted over 19 pounds.).
A 25 lb. bass was caught as by catch in a fisherman's net earlier this year, so many thought it would be just a matter of time before a record size fish was taken from Japan's largest (over 70 miles long) natural lake.
More updates from the Deps site:
As best I can summarize before the actual translating: He (reporter) was returning from a previous trip and had been out late that night. The next day around 12 he got a call about the big bass and to hurry as it was over 20 pounds. He arrived with a camera crew. The fish was originally kept in a recirculating livewell but as the day wore on the power died and so did the fish ultimately. Originally they thought of donating the fish live to the local museum for tourism purposes. The fish is now frozen and awaiting certification process.
When the fish was landed, the hook(s) fell out right as he got it in the net. It is still unclear even from the translator whether it is a lure or live bait that was used.
It apears to not have been caught on the "Mother" swimbait as was originally speculated. It also appears to have been caught in deep open water.
ROD: SIDEWINDER THE DOM DRIVER F / E
LINE: TORAY SUPER HARD STRONG 25lb
I have photos that most sites dont have so stop on by and I'll talk to you all a little more later when i get back home from the tournament i was just at. Tight lines, Steve
