Population Dynamics of Smallmouth Bass at Waugoshance Point, Northern Lake Michigan

Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieui) populations in nearshore waters of northern Lake Michigan were historically considered a premier sport fishery. Since the 1950’s, regulations have changed, including increases in length limits and the addition of a catch-and-release angling season. The food web has been altered as well, including the introduction of the non-native round goby, potential prey for and egg predator of smallmouth bass. Our objectives were to understand population dynamics of the smallmouth bass fishery at Waugoshance Point, and to understand the impact of regulation and ecosystem changes on the population. We surveyed smallmouth bass in 2009–2010 using similar methods to a 1953-1955 study (Latta 1963). Smallmouth bass were captured via trap during June 2009-2010 and were marked for individual identification upon recapture. Length and weight were recorded and scale samples were collected for aging. Relative to the 1950’s, smallmouth bass are longer, in better condition and exhibit increased length-at-age. We also found movement of smallmouth bass to Waugoshance Point from the nearby Beaver Archipelago (approximately 30 km away).  In addition, we trapped round goby to estimate relative densities to other smallmouth bass habitats; round goby appear to be less dense at Waugoshance Point, relative to other nearshore Great Lakes sites. These results improve our understanding of long-term ecosystem and regulation changes on Lake Michigan smallmouth bass.