News
December 03, 2025
Striped bass are struggling: Biologists identify keys to sustainable fisheries
A pair of recent papers, led by biologists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and published in Fisheries Research and Marine and Coastal Fisheries, sought to comprehensively pinpoint which catch-and-release fishing practices pose a considerable risk to striped bass, and to show that there's a mismatch between what anglers know about catch-and-release best practices and how this knowledge translates into action once on the water.
**Striped bass populations face challenges, but research points to solutions for responsible angling**
Anglers reeling in striped bass along the Atlantic coast might unknowingly be contributing to the fish's decline. New research from the University of Massachusetts Amherst highlights the crucial need for better understanding and implementation of catch-and-release best practices to ensure the long-term health of these popular game fish.
Two recent studies, spearheaded by UMass Amherst biologists and published in the journals *Fisheries Research* and *Marine and Coastal Fisheries*, delve into the factors impacting striped bass survival after being caught and released. While catch-and-release fishing is intended to minimize mortality, the research reveals that certain angling practices significantly increase the risk of death for these fish.
The studies aimed to pinpoint the specific actions that pose the greatest threat to striped bass. Biologists explored various aspects of the catch-and-release process, from the type of hook used to the handling techniques employed by anglers. Their findings underscore that seemingly minor details can have a major impact on the fish's ability to survive after being released back into the water.
One key finding emphasizes a disconnect between anglers' knowledge of best practices and their actual behavior on the water. Many fishermen may be aware of techniques designed to minimize harm to the fish, such as using circle hooks or quickly releasing the fish, yet the research indicates that this knowledge isn't always translated into consistent action. This gap between understanding and application is a significant concern for the sustainability of striped bass fisheries.
The research suggests that targeted educational efforts are needed to bridge this gap. By providing anglers with clear and practical guidance on how to minimize stress and injury to striped bass, and motivating them to consistently adopt these practices, it may be possible to significantly reduce mortality rates. This could involve workshops, online resources, or even on-the-water demonstrations.
The long-term health of striped bass populations depends on a collective effort. By understanding the risks associated with certain catch-and-release techniques and actively implementing best practices, anglers can play a vital role in ensuring the future of this iconic species and the sustainable fisheries it supports. Further research will likely focus on developing more effective educational strategies and exploring other factors contributing to striped bass mortality.
Anglers reeling in striped bass along the Atlantic coast might unknowingly be contributing to the fish's decline. New research from the University of Massachusetts Amherst highlights the crucial need for better understanding and implementation of catch-and-release best practices to ensure the long-term health of these popular game fish.
Two recent studies, spearheaded by UMass Amherst biologists and published in the journals *Fisheries Research* and *Marine and Coastal Fisheries*, delve into the factors impacting striped bass survival after being caught and released. While catch-and-release fishing is intended to minimize mortality, the research reveals that certain angling practices significantly increase the risk of death for these fish.
The studies aimed to pinpoint the specific actions that pose the greatest threat to striped bass. Biologists explored various aspects of the catch-and-release process, from the type of hook used to the handling techniques employed by anglers. Their findings underscore that seemingly minor details can have a major impact on the fish's ability to survive after being released back into the water.
One key finding emphasizes a disconnect between anglers' knowledge of best practices and their actual behavior on the water. Many fishermen may be aware of techniques designed to minimize harm to the fish, such as using circle hooks or quickly releasing the fish, yet the research indicates that this knowledge isn't always translated into consistent action. This gap between understanding and application is a significant concern for the sustainability of striped bass fisheries.
The research suggests that targeted educational efforts are needed to bridge this gap. By providing anglers with clear and practical guidance on how to minimize stress and injury to striped bass, and motivating them to consistently adopt these practices, it may be possible to significantly reduce mortality rates. This could involve workshops, online resources, or even on-the-water demonstrations.
The long-term health of striped bass populations depends on a collective effort. By understanding the risks associated with certain catch-and-release techniques and actively implementing best practices, anglers can play a vital role in ensuring the future of this iconic species and the sustainable fisheries it supports. Further research will likely focus on developing more effective educational strategies and exploring other factors contributing to striped bass mortality.
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Technology