Harvest Evaluation of Smallmouth Bass from Selected Ozark Streams in Missouri

To assess angler harvest and potential effects of more restrictive harvest regulations for smallmouth bass, 3,027 fish were tagged with reward tags at six sites on five Ozark streams. Predicted population responses to higher length limits were simulated using Fishery Analysis and Modeling Simulator (FAMS) software. Annual exploitation ranged between 5 and 26%. Overall growth rates were relatively slow, as mean time to reach 12 inches was 4.9 years and mean time to reach 15 inches was 7.8 years. Total annual mortality estimates ranged from 37 to 55%. Annual natural mortality estimates ranged from 13 to 33%. Predicted responses to higher length limits varied considerably. Simulations of 14- and 15-inch length limits predicted increases in the number of larger smallmouth bass. However, increases at five of the six sites were predicted to be very small. Simulation results indicated that a 15-inch length limit at the Current River-Powder Mill site would not only increase the number of fish greater than 15 inches, but it would also increase yield. Under current conditions and regulations, fish at this site are not reaching their full growth potential. Simulations of the remaining five populations indicated no potential for growth overfishing under current conditions and regulations.