IGFA creates separate divisions in world record bass categories, TPWD not yet sold on change.

Story and photography by Matt Williams

A rule change recently implemented by the Florida-based International Game Fish Association regarding how the organization will now interpret and classify world record largemouth bass is getting the attention of anglers around the globe.  Especially those intrigued by the big ones.

The change has also got plenty of anglers scratching their heads in confusion. Leaders with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Inland Fisheries Division say they are pondering ways to cope.

The new rule divides northern largemouth bass and Florida largemouth bass into separate all-tackle world record categories instead of one, which has existed for decades.

The rule also calls for mandatory genetics testing as support for any new All-Tackle record submissions for either species. However, genetics testing will not be required for eligibility for line class, tippet class, junior and length records.

Additionally, the IGFA made adjustments to spotted bass and Alabama bass records to reflect accurate species identification between the two.

IGFA calls itself the leading authority on angling pursuits and the keeper of the most current world record catches in dozens of categories for fresh and saltwater. The organization officially announced the aforementioned changes in a June press release. The report indicates the updates to bass record categories are “based on the latest scientific findings.”

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