Behavioral Syndromes and Learned Hook Avoidance in Ambloplites Rupestris

Studies demonstrate that catch-and-release angling may result in reduced catchability over time, which suggests angling-induced behavioral change. Further, behavioral syndromes have also been suggested to influence a fish’s vulnerability to angling. Using Rock Bass Ambloplites rupestris in laboratory experiments, we assessed the influence of behavioral syndromes on a fish’s ability to alter its behavior in response to anglers over seven consecutive days of fishing. Ration level and lure type were also varied across treatments. Initial results show strong affects from both the lure and the control, where fish are offered worms on a wire without the negative stimulus of a hook. We see considerable variation when it comes to the simple worm on a hook.  The learned avoidance of capture has strong implications for fishing-induced evolution, efficacy of management regulations and satisfaction of anglers.