In The Know with Gino: 10-Year-Old Angler Sets New TN State Record with Massive Cutthroat Trout Catch
Picture Courtesy of Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency
PINEY FLATS, TN – In an awe-inspiring display of fishing talent, 10-year-old Palmer Tipton has secured his place in Tennessee’s fishing history by reeling in the new state record cutthroat trout.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) confirmed that the colossal fish weighed an astonishing 4 pounds and 12 ounces, surpassing the previous record by more than two pounds. The remarkable catch has sent ripples of excitement through the angling community and highlights the successful conservation efforts made by TWRA.
Palmer Tipton accomplished his incredible feat while fishing in the tailwater downstream from Boone Dam. The young angler’s determination and skill were evident as he successfully landed the massive cutthroat trout, making him the talk of the town and an inspiration to fellow fishing enthusiasts.
In a bid to revitalize the cutthroat trout population in Tennessee, TWRA has been diligently working on various conservation initiatives. In 2021 alone, the agency released an impressive 2,550 Cutthroat Trout into the area. These conservation efforts have also extended to other coldwater regions, such as the Hiwassee River and the Elk River below Tims Ford Dam, creating new opportunities for anglers and promoting ecological diversity.
Native to western regions of the United States, cutthroat trout are not indigenous to Tennessee. However, in the 1950s through the early 1960s, the fish were introduced to a few of Tennessee’s tailwaters. Unfortunately, the stocking attempts faced significant challenges due to poor water quality before the implementation of the Clean Water Act.
In recent times, TWRA has partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reintroduce cutthroat trout into Tennessee’s waterways. This collaborative effort has proved to be a resounding success, as demonstrated by Palmer Tipton’s record-breaking catch.
Cutthroat trout share similarities in appearance with rainbow trout, making identification an intriguing aspect for anglers. Their body coloration can range from olive to silver, adorned with small black spots throughout. Notably, a key distinguishing feature of cutthroat trout is the vibrant orange or red coloration that appears as “slashes” or “cuts” on the underside of their jaw, a unique characteristic that sets them apart.
According to TWRA, cutthroat trout are known for their relatively aggressive feeding behavior, making them more likely to bite a fly, lure, or bait. This attribute, coupled with their growing presence in Tennessee’s waters, has enhanced the appeal of fishing for these majestic creatures.
Anglers seeking to follow in Palmer Tipton’s footsteps and experience the thrill of catching cutthroat trout are encouraged to check out TWRA’s Tailwater Trout Fishing Forecast. This resource provides valuable tips and insights for fishing in the tailwaters where cutthroat trout can be found.
Palmer Tipton’s extraordinary catch serves as a testament to the exciting possibilities that await anglers in Tennessee’s waters. As TWRA’s conservation efforts continue to bear fruit, the future looks promising for both fishing enthusiasts and the magnificent cutthroat trout species. Congratulations to Palmer on his remarkable achievement, and may his accomplishment inspire others to explore the beauty of Tennessee’s diverse fishing opportunities.
SOURCE: News Channel 9
