CHEYENNE, Wyo. — On Monday, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department recognized 11 people who have recently earned the title of “Ultimate Angler” after catching 10 trophy-sized fish across 10 different species.
A total of 32 people have achieved the title over the years. Two of the newest “Ultimate Anglers” — Hugh Baggs and Justin Wichmann — are from Cheyenne, according to Game and Fish.
The eight other Ultimate Anglers are as follows:
- Benjamin Linnell — Laramie
- Christopher Bobo — Casper
- Haydn Madsen — Wheatland
- Tyrell Perry — Rawlins
- Lester Holladay — Casper
- Jordan Rhodine — Gillette
- Brett Root — Riverton
- Tristen Brodrecht — Casper
- Julius Clark — Buffalo
Brodrecht and Clark, both age 15, are the youngest anglers ever to achieve Ultimate Angler status.
“Congratulations to these 11 anglers,” Dirk Miller, Game and Fish deputy chief of fisheries, said. “It’s certainly not an easy task to catch 10 trophy-sized fish, but it’s a lot of fun and time spent outside enjoying our waters.”
Trophy-size fish represent the largest 5% of the 24 eligible species in the state, Game and Fish said. To participate in the Master Angler program, anglers who catch a fish that meets the minimum qualifying length for a species can submit a photo to have the catch validated by Game and Fish. Photos should show a side-view of the fish with an object like a ruler or a coin.
“Catching one trophy-sized fish earns the title of master angler, a species-specific sticker and recognition on the Game and Fish website,” Game and Fish said. “Five different trophy-length species designate someone as a Trophy Angler, carrying the same prizes as a Master Angler and a commemorative medallion. Those who catch 10 different trophy species get the title of Ultimate Angler and earn the Trophy Angler prizes as well as a special prize package.
“Anglers can use information from the Master Angler webpage to see which waters have yielded trophy fish to plan out their own pursuits. To submit an entry or for measurement tips and a list of masters, visit wgfd.wyo.gov/Fishing-and-Boating/Master-Angler.”
