Predicting the Effects of Angling for Nesting Male Smallmouth Bass on Production of Age‐0 Fish with an Individual‐Based Model

We used an individual‐based model of dynamics of smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu to examine the effect of angling for nesting males on the abundance of age‐0 smallmouth bass. Variation in the daily probability of capture, opening date of angling, and probability of a male successfully returning to guard his brood, as well as a contrast between catch‐and‐keep versus catch‐and‐release policies were examined. Male body size and the preference of anglers for fish of different size were varied as a demonstration of the complex interactions between the variability in the reproductive ecology of a fish, angler preference, and a fixed management regulation. We found that the abundance of age‐0 smallmouth bass decreased as the daily probability of capturing a nesting male increased in both catch‐and‐keep and catch‐and‐release policies. Opening dates during the nesting season, when males were guarding broods, also decreased the abundance of age‐0 fish. This decrease was dramatic when the opening date occurred early in the parental care period relative to late in the period. Stress resulting from handling time for catch‐and‐release can have a significant impact on the abundance of age‐0 fish because nesting males may abandon guarding behavior. The simulations indicate that closed fishing seasons during the parental care period, particularly during the early stages of parental care, may be a viable management option in areas where anglers target nesting males.