In an extraordinary occurrence, the state record for fallfish has been shattered once again, marking the second time within a month.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has officially acknowledged Bryson Meyers of Oakland as the latest record holder for fallfish (Semotilus corporalis) in the nontidal division of the state.
Meyers accomplished this feat on June 16 while fishing in the North Branch of the Potomac River, near the Westernport area. Engaged in a fly-fishing float trip focused on trout, Meyers unexpectedly found himself entangled with a remarkable fallfish that tipped the scales at 3.01 pounds and stretched over 20 inches in length.
Describing the encounter, Meyers recounted, “At first, we believed I had hooked a sizable brown trout, as it displayed the typical stubborn resistance near the riverbed. However, as the fish emerged near the water’s surface and displayed its distinct swirling movements, my fishing companion immediately realized that I might have landed a new state record fallfish.”
To officially document the achievement, the impressive fish underwent weighing on a certified scale at Farm 2 Table meat processor in Oakland. Department of Natural Resources biologist Matt Sell verified the species as a fallfish, confirming the record.
Fallfish, scientifically known as Semotilus corporalis, are members of the chub family (Cyprinidae) and represent the largest native minnow species in eastern North America and the mid-Atlantic region. Due to their ability to grow beyond 19 inches in length, put up a fierce fight, and execute acrobatic jumps upon being hooked, fallfish have gained popularity among sport anglers in Maryland and other mid-Atlantic states.
This remarkable achievement by Meyers surpasses the previous record of 2.27 pounds, set by youth angler Crosby Abe of Cumberland on May 29.
The Department of Natural Resources diligently maintains state records for sport fish across four divisions: Atlantic, Chesapeake, Nontidal, and Invasive. Anglers who believe they have captured a potential record-breaking catch are advised to download and complete a state record application. They can then contact 443-569-1398 to report their potential record catch. To ensure accurate measurement, confirmation, and certification, it is recommended to immerse the fish in ice water, preserving its weight until it can be examined by the department.