Norm - Here is my two cents on the SMB-LMB cohabitation. The SMB could spawn in the larger sand pit depending primarily on the LMB density and diversity of spawning grounds. The greater the number of LMB males the less likely a successful SMB spawn will occur. Survial of fry to 1 year is also quite important. For this SMB spawn to work the manager should place an emphasis on harvest of LMB and protect SMB.
My essay on bgill harvest (about finished) for TyW also notes that research has observed the importance of a presence of larger yellow perch with bill populations to help small bass consume YOY bgill and enhance remaining bgill numbers.
