Fisherman Breaks Record At Loch Raven Reservoir

BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD — A fisherman at Loch Raven Reservoir set a new state record this week, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

George Venker caught a 1.9-pounds white perch that officials said measured 14.75 inches in length.

The retired Bethlehem Steel worker said he used a bottom rig and nightcrawler to snag his record catch.

"I’m really proud. I’m going back to see if I can an even bigger one," Venker said in a statement.

The fish was weighed on a certified scale at Mr. Fish Inc. in Baltimore and broke the previous record set by a Bel Air man last year of 1.74 pounds and 14.5 inches.That fish was also caught at Loch Raven Reservoir.

Generally, authorities say white perch are 7 to 10 inches and weigh 8 ounces to 1 pound. They are related to the striped bass and are among the most abundant fish in the Chesapeake Bay.

“At first I thought it was a catfish," Venker said of his catch.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources biologist Erik Zlokovitz officially confirmed the species as being white perch.

Then the fish was weighed on a certified scale at seafood wholesaler Mr. Fish Inc. in Baltimore.

The state keeps records for fish in Atlantic, Chesapeake, non-tidal and invasive categories. Anglers may report potential record catches to the Department of Natural Resources at 443-569-1381. They are advised to keep their fish in ice water until they can be certified.

Pictured, George Venker with his April 7 record catch. Photo Credit: Department of Natural Resources.