Research Highlights - AFC Urban Fishing Program

Aquaculture/Fisheries Center Research Highlights

AGFC Urban Fishing Program

Hybrid Striped Bass in the UFP
Wes Neal, Sanatan Shreay, Liz Heitman, Mark Leao, Kelly Winningham and Regina Edziyie

In Arkansas, current urban fishing programs rely primarily on put-take stocking of channel catfish during warmer months and rainbow trout during colder months. Rainbow trout are well received by urban anglers, but a special trout permit is required to retain this species. Channel catfish are difficult to catch when water temperatures are low, making it difficult for anglers without a trout permit to harvest fish in cooler months. For this reason, there is a need for alternative species in urban fisheries management. A diversification of urban lakes would also allow resource managers to target a more diverse group of anglers.

With cooperation of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) we evaluated hybrid striped bass as a potential addition to urban fisheries by stocking this fish in two urban fishing ponds. Angler surveys were used to determine angler demographics, success, and attitudes/preferences. Of the anglers who caught hybrid striped bass, over 90% said that it added to their fishing experience and they are more likely to return to the lake to fish. Of all anglers surveyed, 90% said that the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission should begin stocking hybrid striped bass as part of urban fisheries management.