San Angelo Fisherman Sets New Freshwater Drum Record

Sutton's 15.55-pound catch on the Concho River breaks the previous record by over 10 pounds.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 9:55pm

An extreme close-up of a fisherman's hands reeling in a massive freshwater drum, with vibrant neon brushstrokes capturing the raw energy and movement of the catch.A record-breaking freshwater drum catch sparks excitement for anglers in San Angelo.San Angelo Today

San Angelo resident James Sutton recently set a new record for the largest freshwater drum caught in the Concho River, reeling in a 15.55-pound, 28.75-inch fish that shatters the previous record of 5.2 pounds set in 2019.

Why it matters

Freshwater drum, also known as 'white perch' or 'sheepshead,' are a popular sport fish in Texas, and setting a new state record is an impressive feat that highlights the quality of fishing in the Concho River near San Angelo.

The details

Sutton caught the record-breaking freshwater drum from the Bell Street section of the Concho River. If verified by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Inland Fisheries Division, Sutton's catch will officially become the new state record, more than tripling the previous mark.

  • Sutton caught the record-breaking fish recently.
  • The previous freshwater drum record of 5.2 pounds was set in 2019.

The players

James Sutton

A San Angelo resident who recently caught a 15.55-pound freshwater drum, a new state record.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Inland Fisheries Division

The state agency responsible for verifying and certifying new fishing records in Texas.

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What’s next

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's Inland Fisheries Division will review and verify Sutton's catch to officially certify it as a new state record.

The takeaway

This record-breaking freshwater drum catch highlights the excellent fishing opportunities available in the Concho River near San Angelo, Texas, and the excitement it generates among local anglers.