Angler Reclaims State Record with 43.25-Inch Lake Trout in Catch-and-Release Triumph

On a brisk May morning, Dylan and Coyton Smith embarked on a fishing expedition at Payette Lake in Idaho, specifically seeking out large lake trout. Despite the freezing temperatures, where ice formed in their fishing guides, the brothers quickly found success. This journey would ultimately lead to a significant achievement for Dylan.

For many years, the Smith brothers, who share a deep bond over fishing, have dedicated themselves to mastering the art of catching lake trout. Their extensive experience, honed through countless hours on deep waters like Flaming Gorge Reservoir and Payette Lake, has provided them with invaluable insights into locating and attracting these impressive fish. They employ specially designed, hybrid soft plastic lures, crafted to mimic kokanee salmon, a primary food source for lake trout. These unique lures, weighing around three ounces and ranging from six to ten inches, are dark silver, effectively targeting the lake's larger inhabitants. Their technique involves using sonar to identify small groups of two or three large lake trout, which Dylan refers to as “wolf packs,” believing these indicate the presence of bigger fish, unlike larger schools that typically consist of smaller trout.

Later in the day, Coyton caught a 43-inch lake trout, an impressive specimen that briefly held the state's catch-and-release record, surpassing the previous 42-inch record set by Aaron Goettsche in June 2025. However, Coyton, prioritizing the fish's well-being over records, promptly released it. Shortly after, Dylan landed an even larger fish, measuring 43.25 inches. With his brother's assistance, the fish was quickly measured and released, securing Dylan's second state record for catch-and-release lake trout. This achievement not only reinstated his name in the record books but also demonstrated his commitment to responsible angling. Dylan's prior record, a 40-inch lake trout caught eight years ago, had been surpassed, and he expressed a hopeful wish that his fellow angler, Aaron, might one day reclaim the title.

This narrative serves as an inspiring testament to perseverance, skill, and a profound respect for nature. It illustrates how dedication to a passion, combined with ethical practices like catch-and-release, can lead to remarkable accomplishments and foster a spirit of camaraderie among enthusiasts, contributing positively to the conservation of natural resources for future generations.