Smallmouth Reproduction Supplementation

Type: Nontidal
Region: Western
Location: Upper Potomac River

Q: Has the DNR ever considered supplementing the Potomac smallmouth reproduction like they do the Walleye reproduction?

A: Smallmouth Bass reproduction has been monitored on the upper Potomac River annually for the last 37 years. Typical of riverine populations, reproduction has been highly variable with the best yearclasses produced during springs with stable, average flows and the poorest yearclasses produced during wet springs with frequent or prolonged flooding. The abundance and size range of adults in the population fluctuate in response to the strength of the yearclasses produced. However, a variety of other factors may determine how well a particular yearclass survives to adulthood. Yearclasses may contribute more or less than expected as these factors affect survival. Although Smallmouth Bass reproduction in the Potomac during the last five years has ranged from well below to just over the long term "average", survival appears to have been very good as fishermen are reporting excellent catches of Smallmouth Bass in the 10 - 14" range this spring. Supplementing smallmouth reproduction in the upper Potomac River is not believed to be necessary.