The ShareLunker program in Texas invites anglers to participate by catching large bass and contributing data to Texas Parks and Wildlife. The program runs all year, starting in January. Natalie Goldstrohm, the program coordinator, explained that anglers who catch a largemouth bass that is 8 pounds or larger or 20 inches or longer can submit their catch information through the ShareLunker app or website.
The program focuses specifically on largemouth bass and aims to help produce bigger and better fish. Anglers who catch a qualifying bass can take photographs of the fish, weigh it, measure it, and submit the information to the app. They can also send genetic samples from the fish for further analysis.
The ShareLunker program has had a significant impact on growing the size of largemouth bass in Texas. In recent years, there have been high numbers of ShareLunkers entered into the program, as well as an increase in the number of 13-pound bass caught during the collection season from Jan. 1 to March 31. Anglers who catch these 13-pounders can share them with the program and contribute to the genetic stocking program.
The success of the genetic stocking program is evident in the offspring of ShareLunkers that are being stocked back into reservoirs. Anglers have reported catching mother-daughter ShareLunker pairs and sister ShareLunker siblings, all weighing 13 pounds or more. This program allows anglers to make a significant contribution to the conservation and growth of largemouth bass in Texas.
The program also offers rewards for anglers who submit a qualifying fish to the ShareLunker program. Anglers receive a Catch Kit, which includes gear from sponsors, ShareLunker swag, a one-month subscription to Bass University, and entry into a $5,000 Bass Pro Shop shopping spree.
Overall, the ShareLunker program provides anglers with the opportunity to contribute to the conservation and growth of largemouth bass in Texas while also offering rewards for their participation. If you found the information above valuable, please consider making a donation to support the program and its initiatives. Your contribution helps fund the ongoing efforts of the ShareLunker program and other conservation programs in Texas. Thank you for supporting the conservation of Texas wildlife.
