The Truth About the Massachusetts Largemouth Record with Mark Burgess | OTW Podcast Ep. 76

Mark Burgess of Big East Bass Fishing discuss what it’s like being a pro bass angler from Massachusetts, the story behind a record-setting 15-pound largemouth bass through the ice in Southeastern Massachusetts, and whether or not it could ever be broken legitimately.

By OTW StaffMarch 19, 2026

The Truth About the Largemouth Record with Mark Burgess

In The Episode

In February 1975, Walter Bolonis caught a 15-pound largemouth bass through the ice in Southeastern Massachusetts, setting a seemingly unbreakable state record. Yet, many questions surround this catch, questions that professional bass fisherman and podcaster Mark Burgess of Big East Bass Fishing has been trying to answer.

In this episode, Jimmy and Cheech sit down with Mark and discuss what it’s like being a pro bass angler from Massachusetts, the story behind that 15-pound bass, and whether or not it could ever be broken legitimately.

• Check out Mark’s YouTube Channel at Big East Bass Fishing
• Follow Big East Bass Fishing on Facebook

Presented by Raymarine: Earn Your Strikes

Supported by:

OTW Staff

The On The Water staff is made up of experienced anglers from across the Northeast who fish local waters year-round. The team brings firsthand, on-the-water experience and regional knowledge to coverage of Northeast fisheries, techniques, seasonal patterns, regulations, and conservation.