Using angler-submitted records to interpret the spatial seasonality of a large predator (Black bass, Micropterus spp.)

Abstract

In addition to having cultural, social, and economic significance, large predatory fish affect aquatic communities from the top down and serve as markers of ecosystem health. A focus on large predators is critical for managing ecosystems, conserving species, and guaranteeing the sustainability of aquatic resources. Recreational fishing is inherently biased towards large fish, and anglers possess the strength in numbers and geographical dispersion that enable them to sample the upper tiers of size distributions rarely encountered in standard fish surveys. We sought to further understand the ecological requirements and spatial seasonality of exceptionally sized black bass (Micropterus spp.) via angler catches. Black bass > 3.6 kg were examined across 147 reservoirs in Texas, USA, with 2817 fish recorded by anglers into an online database in 2018–2024. Most fish were caught in late-winter and early-spring in line with spawning activities that included movements in-and-out of shallow water, nest building, and nest defense. Approximately 54 % of fish were caught with bottom-oriented fishing lures and techniques, and 40 % midwater; surface catches were less common. The efficacy of angling techniques varied seasonally. Those effective in winter were midwater, while those effective in summer were bottom or surface. Conversely, a combination of bottom and midwater techniques were effective in the fall and spring, suggesting cyclic habitat transitions. Moreover, the frequency with which fish were caught over various macrohabitats varied seasonally and cyclically. Our findings have the potential to inform habitat management that supports large predators and their migratory relocations. Our findings also underscore the value of using anglers and technology as sources of difficult-to-obtain fish and environmental data that may evade regular monitoring.