In a Facebook post, the Missouri Department of Conservation shared a picture of the unique fish. The department said the vibrant golden color is caused by a genetic condition called xanthochroism.

Xanthochroism causes yellow or orange pigmentation in animals, similar to how albinism causes a lack of pigment, according to the department. The genetic condition can occur in a variety of animals, not only fish.

"It was definitely a shock to reel it in." Haddan wrote in a comment.
The angler noted how it was particularly surprising because she found the rare golden crappie in her private pond near Springfield, Missouri.