The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has certified a new Class A state record Alabama Bass.
The 7 pounds, 3 ounces fish was caught by angler Caleb Bell on the Ocoee River, topping the previous state record of 7 pounds, 0 ounces from Parksville Reservoir set by Shane McKee in 2014.
Unfortunately, Alabama Bass are an invasive species that was illegally introduced in Tennessee, causing harm to the environment and native species.
Although Alabama Bass have somewhat higher growth rates upon initial introduction to new places, this is typically a short-lived phenomenon, and these fish tend to overpopulate and remain relatively small.
Author summary: Record Alabama Bass caught in Tennessee.