When news of a 22-pound largemouth surfaced from Japan last July, bass anglers from all corners of the globe held their breath. Could this fish finally dethrone the 75-year-old world record bass caught by George Perry (22 pounds, 4 ounces), the most sought-after record in all of sport fishing? After six months of researching the application, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) handed down its verdict: A tie. 

In an effort to gain intimate details of the biggest catch of the century, Bassmaster Magazine editor James Hall travelled to Japan and spent 10 days on Lake Biwa, where Kurita not only caught the giant, but has hooked even larger bass. His tactics, along with those employed by other Japanese anglers, are unlike the techniques used in the United States.

Join James Hall as he unveils the unknown details surrounding the world record catch; new Japanese techniques; and why the next world record bass will likely be caught from Lake Biwa.