Anglers are reminded that the ShareLunker program is no longer limited to entries weighing 13 pounds or more.
In 2018, the program launched a new format with multiple weight classes and a year-round participation framework aimed at boosting angler interest while providing fisheries scientists with valuable information about big bass distribution across the state and which lakes are producing them most frequently.
“Lunker Legacy" is at the top-tier of the weight class categories. It is the only category in which fish are retrieved and transported to the TFFC for spawning. Fish must weigh 13 pounds or more and be caught between Jan. 1-March 31 to qualify.
The remaining ShareLunker categories are open for year-round entry:
- Lunker Class: For bass that measure at least 24 inches or weigh 8 to 9.99 pounds.
- Lunker Elite Class: For bass weighing 10 to 12.99 pounds.
- Lunker Legend: For bass weighing 13 or more pounds caught outside the Jan. 1-March 31 spawning window.
Entering is simple. Legacy Lunkers require a phone call to ShareLunker headquarters at 903-681-0550. Entry in the other three categories must be carried out online by creating a free account at texassharelunker.com using a Smartphone or home computer.
Electronic entries must be accompanied by at least two digital photos—one showing the fish on a measuring board and another showing it weighed on a digital scale. There is an easy-to-follow instructional video on the program website, texassharelunker.com.
Another neat twist to the revised format is it encourages participating anglers to become citizen scientists by getting them involved in the genetics research aspect of the program. Anglers can do this by plucking a few scales from the side of their fish before they release it. The scales can be sent to the department's genetics lab is San Marcos for DNA testing. The testing results should provide biologists with a wealth of valuable genetic data over time that will useful in evaluating wild populations of big bass in Texas reservoirs.
All confirmed ShareLunker participants receive a “Catch Kit” that includes an achievement decal and other goodies. Everyone who enters is eligible win a $5,000 shopping spree to Bass Pro Shops decided by a year-end drawing.
Anglers who donate Legacy Class are entered in an exclusive drawing for a shopping spree of equal value. This year’s Legacy Class winner will be announced at the 2020 Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest scheduled for Nov. 5-8 at Lake Fork.