If you haven't read it already in the latest PB magazine, please do so. Excellent info on survival rates, growth, and behavior of wild vs hatchery raised Fla LMB.

Hatcheries should prep the little LMB for a couple of weeks prior to stocking. Or perhaps the pondmeister can put the little guys in a predator free forage pond for a few weeks to get them acclimated. A very big deal!

I've tried that. They ate each other. I remember watching two 2 inch bass in my creek. I had just stocked them. Suddenly, the tail of one was sticking out the others mouth. It swam away and I have no idea whether it survived.

I agree. West did some great work and provided great data for survival and travel of hatchery vs wild stock LMB.

That study is full of info and especially the survival and movement info. The birds did a number on those LMB. If you want a copy of the study PM me an email address.

Thanks for the kind words guys. If you have suggestions let me know.

Eric always nails his articles, I should be more vocal with my appreciation.