Abstract
This article traces the early introductions of nonnative smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) in Maine from 1868 to 1898, as documented primarily in reports of the Maine Commissioners of Fisheries for those years. Early handling and transportation efforts were crude and primitive by today's standards, but by trial and error they were eventually effective. The concepts of using donor waters and public participation were developed to the point that introductions could not be controlled by the state, a situation that continues today. The commissioners were adamant that bass should be introduced in suitable waters, and should not be introduced in salmonid waters because of possible detrimental effects on native fauna. Despite their wishes, many in unauthorized introductions have been made in the past 100 years, including many salmonid waters. Although it is virtually impossible to prohibit all illegal bass introductions, expanded educational programs and more stringent laws and law enforcement should aid in this effort.
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