Austin, TX — On September 6, 2024, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announced a new state record for a smallmouth buffalo fish caught at Lady Bird Lake. Weighing in at 71.63 pounds, the fish was released back into the lake to continue growing, according to TPWD’s post on X.
The record-breaking fish was caught by Austin Anderson on June 10, 2024, and measured 44.50 inches in length. While specimens over 82 pounds have been caught by rod and reel and the trotline record stands at 97 pounds in Texas, this recent catch surpasses previous state records.
Smallmouth buffalo fish are often mistaken for common carp but can be distinguished by their downward-facing, sucker-type mouths and distinct coppery or greenish brown coloration. Unlike bigmouth buffalo, which have a more pronounced mouth, smallmouth buffalo are known for their unique appearance.
The life history of the smallmouth buffalo is not thoroughly understood, but they are known to spawn in spring when water temperatures reach 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Their eggs are laid over several weeks on muddy bottoms and hatch within one to two weeks. As primarily bottom-feeders, their diet includes insect larvae, algae, and sand.
Native to larger tributaries of the Mississippi River and Gulf slope drainages from Alabama to the Rio Grande, smallmouth buffalo are commonly found in major streams, rivers, and reservoirs across Texas, excluding the Panhandle.
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