Theses and Dissertations Collection

The Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu is one of the most socially, economically, and ecologically important species in North America. The Snake River, Idaho, supports a popular Smallmouth Bass sport fishery, but little is known about the population. Additionally, anglers and conservation officers in the area have expressed concern about the harvest of Smallmouth Bass associated with spawning congregations in and near the lower reaches of several major tributaries (i.e., Payette and Weiser rivers). This thesis described the population dynamics, demographics, and movement of Smallmouth Bass in the Snake River, Idaho between Swan Falls Dam and Brownlee Dam. Results of this study indicate fast growth, good size structure and body condition, low exploitation, and highly variable movement of Smallmouth Bass throughout the entire system. Under current conditions, management changes (e.g., minimum length limit increase, seasonal fishing restrictions) in the system do not seem warranted. Furthermore, this research provides guidance for managers in the western United States where information on the distribution and ecology of Smallmouth Bass in streams and rivers is limited.