Two West Virginia fishermen, Lindell Marker and Dwight Priestley, were out on Woodrum Lake fishing for black crappie when they both set new state records. Marker was the first to break the previous state record in length by catching a fish that measured 17.36 inches, tying with the existing weight record of 2.85 pounds set by Craig Webb. However, less than two hours later, Priestley reeled in a black crappie that surpassed both the length and weight records, securing his place as the new record holder. Both fishermen used live minnows to achieve their impressive catches.
The record-setting catches of Marker and Priestley at Woodrum Lake caught the attention of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, who congratulated them on their achievements. The records were verified by West Virginia DNR’s Fisheries Biologist Cory Hartman, confirming the incredible fishing opportunities at Woodrum Lake. The director of WVDNR, Brett McMillion, expressed his excitement over the new records and highlighted the quality of the state’s fisheries. With these two new records, the WVDNR has reported a total of eight record-breaking catches in 2024, showcasing the exceptional fishing opportunities in West Virginia.
The news of Marker and Priestley’s record-breaking catches spread quickly, with media outlets like Fox News covering the story. Marker set a new state record for black crappie length, only to be surpassed by Priestley in less than two hours. Their remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration for anglers to explore West Virginia’s world-class fishing opportunities. The use of live minnows in achieving the record catches highlights the effectiveness of this bait for fishing black crappie in Woodrum Lake.
The West Virginia Department of Natural Resources (WVDNR) acknowledged the outstanding achievements of Marker and Priestley, emphasizing the quality of the state’s fisheries. The recognition of these new records underscores the incredible fishing opportunities available at Woodrum Lake, attracting attention from anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The state’s commitment to preserving and promoting its fisheries is reflected in the celebration of these record-breaking catches and the recognition of the fishermen’s accomplishments. The success of Marker and Priestley serves as a testament to the potential for anglers to set new records and enjoy the diverse fishing experiences in West Virginia.
As the news of the record-breaking catches spread, the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources (WVDNR) confirmed the validity of Marker and Priestley’s achievements. The Fisheries Biologist Cory Hartman verified the records, ensuring that the catches met the required criteria for setting new state records. Governor Jim Justice’s congratulations to the fishermen highlighted the significance of their accomplishments in the sport of fishing. The increased visibility of West Virginia’s fishing opportunities through these records serves to attract more anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to explore the diverse and abundant fisheries in the state.
The recognition of Marker and Priestley’s record-breaking catches underscores the importance of conservation and management of fisheries in West Virginia. The successful catches are a result of sustainable fishing practices and efforts to maintain healthy fish populations in Woodrum Lake. The collaboration between anglers, state agencies, and conservationists in promoting responsible fishing practices contributes to the continued success and growth of the state’s fisheries. The celebration of these new records serves as a reminder of the value of preserving natural resources and ensuring the enjoyment of fishing for future generations.
