Angler's Son Helps Land a 12.5-Pound Bass at Toledo Bend

A remarkable fishing tale unfolded at the vast Toledo Bend Reservoir, where angler Greer Billeaud achieved a personal best, securing a magnificent 12.5-pound largemouth bass. This extraordinary event, witnessed by his young son, not only resulted in a significant catch but also earned Billeaud a prestigious replica mount, celebrating a true angling triumph.

Man and Son Team Up to Catch Record Bass at Toledo Bend

On Monday, April 6, Greer Billeaud, a 33-year-old resident of Lafayette and co-owner of the renowned Billeaud Boudin Company, embarked on a fishing excursion at Toledo Bend Reservoir, a body of water deeply intertwined with his family's history. While enjoying time on the lake with his wife and children during Easter week, catching crappies, Billeaud seized a fleeting opportunity just before dusk. He invited his 7-year-old son, Hansen, a passionate young angler, to join him in pursuit of a sizable bass. Their chosen spot was a creek mouth flat, a promising location for spawning-season bass.

Utilizing advanced forward-facing sonar technology, the father-son duo located a large fish in approximately five feet of water along a ridgeline. Initially estimating it to be an 8- or 9-pound bass, Billeaud carefully cast a 'Coike' soft plastic lure towards the target. The fish struck the lure just 15 feet from their vessel. A powerful struggle ensued, leading Billeaud to momentarily believe he had hooked a catfish due to the fish's immense strength. However, as he skillfully guided the creature closer, it broke the surface with a forceful jump, prompting Hansen to exclaim, “It's a bass!”

After securing the impressive largemouth, Billeaud initially estimated its weight to be at least 10 pounds, though he lacked a scale on board. A quick check with a friend on the lake indicated a weight of 12.97 pounds, and upon returning to his camp, his own scale registered 13.2 pounds. To obtain an official weight, Billeaud contacted Marcus Henry at Buckeye Landing Marina, an accredited weigh station for the Toledo Bend Lake Association (TBLA). Despite the late hour, Henry graciously opened the marina, and the bass was officially certified at 12.5 pounds, measuring an impressive 29 inches in length and 21.5 inches in girth.

Following the official weighing and measurement, Billeaud and Henry carefully returned the vibrant bass to the waters of Toledo Bend at the marina, where it swiftly jetted off. This catch marks Billeaud's largest to date and is the 53rd largemouth bass weighing over 10 pounds submitted for a TBLA replica mount for the 2025-2026 season, a program that rewards anglers who weigh and release trophy bass according to their guidelines.

This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the profound bond between parents and children, especially when shared through the passion of outdoor pursuits. The exhilaration of a monumental catch, combined with the educational aspect of responsible angling through catch-and-release, creates an indelible memory. Moreover, the dedication of organizations like the Toledo Bend Lake Association in promoting conservation and recognizing exceptional angling achievements underscores the importance of protecting our natural resources for future generations. Billeaud's story is not just about a big fish; it's about a cherished moment, shared joy, and a commitment to the environment that enriches us all.