Effect of wind speed and light intensity on reflex impairment of angled Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu)

Abstract

AbstractWe quantified effects of wind speed and sunlight on Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu), a popular gamefish in North America, after catch‐and‐release (C&R) (n = 90) during August for various periods (0, 10, 30 and 90 s) in direct sunlight or shaded from direct sunlight. We evaluated change in skin temperature and reflex action mortality predictor (RAMP) scores. Changes in skin temperature were larger with increasing wind speeds and air exposure duration. Light intensity had no effect on skin temperature or RAMP. Generally, skin temperature decreased (i.e. colder) when wind speed exceeded ~5 km/h and increased (i.e. warmer) when wind speed was below ~5 km/h. Significantly, lower RAMP scores were associated with longer air exposure. Generally, Smallmouth Bass exposed to air for longer than 10 s were significantly more impaired prior to release. We recommend anglers reduce the time that large fish are exposed to air to reduce immediate reflex impairment.