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This from the Baxter Bulletin:

Man catches record-setting gar


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GOULD (AP) — Tommy Cantrell was fishing on Taylor Old River Lake when he snapped the long-nose gar state record by more than six pounds with a 35-pound, 12-ounce heavyweight.

Cantrell was fishing with minnows on the Lincoln County-Jefferson County line when the 68-inch fish took the bait.

The catch topped the record of 29 pounds, 4 ounces taken in 1999 from the Ouachita River by Brandon Polk of Norphlet. The gar, caught with a rod using hook and line, was weighed on certified scales and identified by a "fisheries professional." Jeremy Risley, an Arkansas Game and Fish Commission fisheries biologist, verified the species.

Fish caught on hand-held snagging gear will be considered for record if they were taken from waters where snagging is legal. Fish caught using other methods may be listed in the unrestricted tackle category.

Commercial catches are not considered and electric reels may not be used. To apply for a state record, submit a State Record Fish Application, which is available from all AGFC offices and field employees.