Livewell-Held Bass Require Special Care During Summer Months

Todd Driscoll

TPWD

The popularity of bass fishing has exploded during the last 20 years.  During this time many changes have taken place, including increases in fishing technology and the advent of more restrictive harvest regulations.  However, one of the most important changes includes increased angler acceptance of catch and release practices.  There is no doubt that the popularity of catch and release has helped sustain and enhance bass fisheries throughout the country.  Currently, almost all bass tournaments require release of all live fish weighed in and penalize those with dead bass.  In addition, conservation of the resource should be a major consideration of all tournament anglers.  Therefore, tournament anglers should do everything possible to ensure survival of released fish.  By following the guidelines below, anglers can minimize stress on bass while held in livewells. (click below to read more)