A Transition of Management Strategies for Native Riverine Black Bass Species
The Native Black Bass Initiative was created to address the conservation of black basses within their native riverine ranges and to raise awareness of various unique species that were not previously well-studied. Historically, these species are managed the same as other black bass species, such as Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass. However, research and monitoring of these species has provided additional information to re-evaluate management strategies. The traditional approach to bass management used stocking and regulations to aid in recreational fishing opportunities, however in watersheds with native black bass new adaptations are necessary for preservation. The addition of genetic research has shown increases in introgression of other nonnative bass species, and the geographic ranges amongst species require a multiple agency collaboration and business-like network approach to successful management. Case studies throughout the southeast highlight these adaptations to management strategies for native riverine black bass species.