by James Jung

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Question: What is the proper way to measure a fish? I typically take a tape measure and lay the fish on the floor of my boat then place the tape measure on top of the fish. Our group has a wager on biggest fish and I have been accused of cheating by using this method.

Answer: The proper way to measure a fish is to place it on top of the measuring tape and take the measurement from the tip of the nose, (mouth closed) to the end of the compressed tail. If you think about it, by using your method you are not measuring a straight line but are taking into account the girth of the fish.

Many anglers and all conservation wardens use a “bump board” on which you can place the fish. A metal ruler or tape measure is secured to the bottom of the board and an end board is secured on the one end allowing you to place or “bump” the fish’s mouth against it. By improperly measuring and placing the tape on top of the fish you may win the bet with your group but may be in trouble with the warden if your fish is undersize.

This question brings up another good question. How should I handle a potential state record fish if I catch one? The first thing is do not clean or freeze the fish. Keep the fish on ice and get it weighed as soon as possible. Fish can and do lose weight after being caught so get it weighed on a certified scale.

The weighing must be witnessed by an observer. Your next step would be to contact your local DNR Fisheries Biologist to have the fish positively identified. Line class record fish require some additional information and you must submit a portion of the line used to land the fish. The DNR does not keep line-class or lake specific records.

However, you can contact the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame for national line-class records at www.freshwater-fishing.org.

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