A Novel Approach to a Growing Problem: Induced Nest Failure as a Method for Controlling Invasive Bass

The spread of smallmouth (Micropterus dolomieu) and largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) beyond their native range is impacting individual species (e.g., sport and prey fishes) and entire food webs. However, we have yet to develop an effective and efficient means of bass control. Using an age-structured model, we evaluate the efficacy of bass control via catch-and-release angling during the nesting season. Our hypothesis is that angling will induce nest failure via predation and abandonment, and that releasing angled adults will prevent conspecific competitive release. Provided that failure is induced in enough nests each year, our simulations suggest that induced nest failure can result in a smaller population of trophy bass that should have a relatively small impact on native species. We are beginning to test induced nest failure in both large and small lakes, and recommend this strategy to fisheries managers who are interested in efficiently and effectively controlling bass through stakeholder involvement.