So how did Ernst earn his elite angler status? The TPWD’s program recognizes anyone who catches trophy-class fish in five different saltwater or freshwater categories. On his resume, Ernst has run the table on saltwater catches, landing a 21.75-inch sheepshead, 22.75-inch black drum, 21.25-inch ladyfish, 21-inch spotted seatrout and 14.88-inch sand seatrout.