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Tennessee bass clubs can help themselves and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency by participating in a program designed to improve management of black bass populations statewide.
Reservoir bass fisheries are one of Tennessee^s most important recreational resources. A recent survey of reservoir anglers identified black bass as the most sought after sport fish in the Volunteer State.
The TWRA solicits bass tournament data from clubs across the state and records the collected data in its B.I.T.E. (Bass Information from Tournament Entries) program.
Participating clubs receive an annual report that provides them with information by reservoir on the average sizes of bass weighed in at tournaments, the hours it takes to catch a five-pound bass, catch rates by number and weight, and more. For instance, through late summer 1998 the average weight of bass weighted in was 2.05 pounds and average hours to catch a bass five pounds or greater was 197. Catch rates were 1.58 bass and 3.25 pounds per 10 hours fishing.
State fisheries biologists use the data to document trends in bass populations that lead to appropriate management actions. The Agency needs the support of every bass club in Tennessee to make this program a success.
Bass clubs choosing to participate in B.I.T.E. will be provided post-paid cards to be completed and mailed to the TWRA following each tournament. Card information will include what is normally compiled by bass club officials. Only one card per tournament is all that is required.
Bass clubs wanting to participate in B.I.T.E. should contact Mike Bramlett at (615) 781-6575. Or click on BITE form to print and fill out.
Uploaded: 8/19/1999
Uploaded: 8/19/1999