A groundbreaking new fisheries initiative is set to begin Jan. 1 as the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) officially launches the Legacy Lunker program, a statewide effort designed to enhance trophy bass genetics through angler participation and advanced hatchery science.
“This is probably one of the most exciting things I’ve been a part of in my career,” said AGFC Fisheries Division Chief Tommy Laird, speaking at the program’s unveiling in July. His excitement mirrors that of many AGFC staff who have worked to make the Lunker program a reality.
How the Legacy Lunker Program Works
From Jan. 1 through March 31 each year, any angler who catches a largemouth bass weighing 10 pounds or more from Arkansas waters can call the new Lunker Line at 833-948-2277, available 24/7.
If the fish is healthy enough, AGFC personnel will meet the angler lakeside, take possession of the bass, and transport it to the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery in Lonoke.
There, the trophy female will be spawned with genetically superior male largemouth bass, producing fingerlings engineered for fast growth and trophy potential. After spawning, the original “Legacy Lunker” will be returned to the same lake where it was caught.
Rewards for Participating Anglers
Anglers who donate qualifying fish will receive:
A free replica mount crafted by Harper’s Pure Country Taxidermy
Automatic entry into a drawing later in the year for a brand-new boat
Recognition for contributing to Arkansas fisheries conservation
Modeled After Texas… But Designed for Arkansas
The program was inspired by the Texas Parks and Wildlife ShareLunker program, but Arkansas biologists have tailored the blueprint to the state’s hatchery capacity and resources.
“Texas has been an incredible partner,” said Jeremy Risley, AGFC Black Bass Program coordinator. “They helped us bypass decades of trial and error so we could launch an effective program right away.”
AGFC’s approach includes innovations unique to Arkansas, including the ability to simulate ideal spawning conditions in its newly renovated indoor facility.
New Hatchery Upgrades Enable Cutting-Edge Spawning
Jason Miller, AGFC Fisheries Division assistant chief, said upgrades at the Lonoke hatchery were essential.
The hatchery now features 10 epoxy-coated concrete raceways, called “hawg troughs,” which protect fish from injury, reduce infection risk, and allow staff to precisely manage water temperature, light, and environmental conditions.
“Instead of waiting on Mother Nature, we can now control when spawning occurs,” Miller said.
Superior Genetics Through Private Partnership
Unlike other states, Arkansas is accelerating genetic improvement by partnering with Red Hills Fishery in Georgia. Their TITAN MAXX largemouth bass line—genetically selected for exceptional size—will serve as the male component in the initial spawning years.
“These are essentially thoroughbred bass,” Miller said. “And we’re testing our own Florida bass broodstock to identify the best Arkansas-based genetics long term.”
Building Better Bass for Arkansas Waters
Risley emphasized that participation from local anglers is what will ultimately drive the program’s success.
“These are Arkansas fish with Arkansas genetics,” he said. “We know they can grow big here because they already did.”
Fingerlings produced each year will be stocked back into the same lake or river system where the parent fish originated, boosting that specific fishery’s genetic potential.
Tips for Anglers Hoping to Donate a Lunker
To increase the chances your trophy bass arrives at the hatchery healthy:
1. Livewell and prosper:
Keep your livewell clean, cool, and aerated. Additives are fine—just don’t overdo it.
2. Don’t get handsy:
Minimize handling and wait to take photos until AGFC staff arrive.
3. Details matter:
Record the water temperature, depth, and conditions of your catch. Some deep-water fish may need special care.
To Report a Lunker Catch
Call the Lunker Line: 833-948-2277
Learn more at www.agfc.com/legacylunker
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