My Biggest Bass at Lake Frank

Type: Nontidal
Region: Central
Location: Lake Frank

I tried a few different colors of plastics along the shores of Lake Frank and caught a few small crappies late in the evening. I decided to move down into the more rocky area and go a little deeper and with a bigger lure to try for a bigger crappie or largemouth. I ended up with my biggest bass to date! Reeled in this 21" largemouth off a watermelon red speckled plastic worm around 8:00 PM on Monday May 8th. I had a fellow angler snap a few pictures and then he was released.

Does this qualify for a citation award and how do I go about qualifying? I wanted to take it to the Official Citation center but bass season has not started yet so I was afraid to bring it out of the lake. What are the rules on this? I attached a picture of him next to a tape measure for DNR to review.

DNR Response: You can submit for a Catch & Release Award, this also gains you entry into the Fishing Challenge. Here�s the rules, basically you need to bring a picture to an awards center or send a photo in with a form found online (link within rule 3):

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Catch and Release Program rewards fishermen who release their catch alive. An angler who meets or exceeds the minimum size stated in the Size Requirements on the Maryland Fishing Challenge website, will receive a Fishing Challenge Award. A Photo must be submitted with the application.

1. Fish must be caught in Maryland waters by rod and reel and released alive and in good shape.

2. Only one award per day per species per season.

3. Fish must be measured from tip of jaw to tip of tail to determine if eligible. An entry form must be filled out and mailed or go to a Fishing Challenge Recognition Award Center near you, don't forget to send in with an accompanying photograph.