Idaho Fish and Game's Catch-and-Release Record Program recognizes anglers who catch qualifying fish and release them alive. The program gives anglers an opportunity to pursue state-record fish while allowing those fish to swim away and, perhaps, give someone else a memorable fishing story someday.

Bullhead catfish may not always get the same attention as Idaho's trout, salmon, or bass, but they can provide plenty of fun for anglers. Delong's 17-inch bullhead now sits at the top of the leaderboard, although if history is any indication, it may not stay there for long. After all, the previous record lasted only about 15 months.

So, anglers, consider this your challenge: 17 inches is the number to beat.

Visit Fish and Game's State Record Fish Program for information on eligibility requirements and how to submit a record application. And check out Episode Fish and Game podcast episode for an inside look into the record fish program and how you might land one.