Danny Naugle, left middle, a Cassville resident and Shell Knob native, was recently presented a plaque for his state record yellow bass catch, a 2-pound, 7-ounce fish measuring 16.5 inches, defeating the previous state record of 9 ounces set by Jessica Murry, of St. Peters, in Match 1995. Naugle caught the fish with a pole and line at about 6 a.m. on May 13 from a dock boat slip in Shell Knob. He had been fishing for about 45 minutes and caught the bass with minnows on a 4-pound line. For the catch, he was presented with a state record plaque and master angler pin. Naugle said he is having a replica of the fish made by Cole Cruick Shanks. He has fished in Shell Knob since childhood, learning from his father and grandmother. It is his first state record, and he said he will be keep an eye on his catches a little closer now. Pictured with Naugle, from left, is Jessica Naugle; Eli Naugle; Henry Naugle; Cpl. D.B., with the Department of Conservation; and Cole Beuterbaugh, with the Department of Conservation. Heather Gusta/Special to the Cassville Democrat
