This Tagged Bass in NM Could Be Worth $10,000

Show of hands, who could use $10,000? Ok, if it meant you had to go fishing would you take up fishing to win that money? If you answered yes to those two questions then you are in luck because Starting August 1, Elephant Butte Lake is turning into a real-life episode of Survivor: Bass Edition—and you could walk away $10,000 richer. 

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is tagging one lucky largemouth bass and releasing it into Elephant Butte Lake. If you manage to reel it in alive and wriggling, you could be handed a check worth $10K. Yup, just for catching a fish. 

A post was shared on thescene.abq’s Instagram page and many people were excited for this challenge with one person writing: 

“On my way to rent scuba diving gear.”

 

This challenge is the brainchild of the Elephant Butte Chamber of Commerce. The reason for this challenge is to bring people far and wide to the lake for an unforgettable August full of lines, lures, and possibly life-changing catches.

But don’t think it’ll be easy. This bass is big enough to avoid predators and strong enough to give you a run for your bait. If you’re lucky and skilled enough to catch the fish you are asked to bring that fish alive to Marina Del Sur, where officials will verify the tag and crown the champion. 

So grab your tackle box, kiss your lucky fishing hat, and make your way to Elephant Butte. Because somewhere in those waters swims a fish with a $10,000 tail.