West Virginia Woman Sets New State Record for Pumpkinseed Sunfish

In a remarkable turn of events, Sierra Adamson's morning fishing trip transformed into a record-setting achievement, showcasing the exciting opportunities awaiting anglers in West Virginia's waters. Her dedication to panfish angling and a keen eye for potential record-breakers led to this significant moment, proving that impressive catches can emerge from seemingly ordinary outings.

Beverly Angler Lands Record-Breaking Pumpkinseed in Tygart Valley River

On the morning of July 14, in the serene waters of the Tygart Valley River, Sierra Adamson, a resident of Beverly, West Virginia, accompanied by her boyfriend Ronald Davis, made an extraordinary catch that rewrote the state's fishing records. Fresh from her shift at Walmart, Adamson cast her line into a familiar spot known for its abundant panfish. Utilizing an earthworm bait with a slight weight, she initially missed a strike but remained persistent. Her second cast proved fruitful, as a robust fish took the bait, putting up a spirited fight before she skillfully reeled it in using her spinning reel and 10-pound-test line.

Upon closer inspection, Adamson realized she had caught an exceptionally large and vibrant pumpkinseed sunfish. Unaware at the time that a new record had been established merely weeks before, her intuition for state panfish records, which West Virginia began recognizing in 2024 for species like pumpkinseed sunfish, guided her next steps. Davis promptly contacted the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) office in Elkins. Following their instructions, the couple carefully transported the lively fish in a bucket of water to the Elkins Operations Center.

There, Stephen Floyd, a state DNR fisheries biologist, officially measured and verified Adamson's catch. The pumpkinseed sunfish measured an impressive 9.13 inches in length and weighed 0.62 pounds, officially surpassing the previous record of 9.09 inches and 0.60 pounds, which had been set by Ken Neer at Fairfax Pond – Rehe Wildlife Management Area on June 25. After the official documentation, Adamson and Davis returned to the Tygart Valley River, releasing the vibrant fish back into its natural habitat, where it gracefully swam away, ensuring the conservation of this remarkable specimen.

This inspiring angling feat by Sierra Adamson serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance and passion can lead to remarkable achievements in the natural world. Her story not only highlights the rich biodiversity of West Virginia's aquatic ecosystems but also encourages other anglers to explore their local waters with a sense of adventure and respect for wildlife. The successful catch and release of the record-breaking pumpkinseed underscore the importance of sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the thrill of the catch and the beauty of healthy fish populations. Adamson's experience may well inspire a new wave of anglers to pursue their own record-breaking dreams, fostering a deeper connection with nature and the sport of fishing.