I would like to see the study that says catchability of pure Florida LMB is as good as Northern LMB. Can you provide a cite so I can compare it to the other studies ? I may have miunderstood your post if you are not saying there is such a study.

Greg there is an extensive study on Fla LMB and cold tolerance. IMO the northern limit for good results from Fla LMB is about the North line of Tenn extended but factoring in elevation and water source (cold water). There is no data I have seen on F-1 results by latitude but there is anecdotal evidence of good results a good bit further north than Flas.

I want to point out again that F-1 crosses are not the same as Tiger LMB. The entire concept of Tiger LMB is selected genetics. The brood fish are picked especially for size in the Fla female and aggressiveness in the Northern male. Also keep in mind that Fla male LMB are small in comparison to Northern males and especially to Fla females. If you want half of your LMB to be undersized then use all Flas. Also want to point out that Fla LMB have a longer life span in the south therefore they will be in the pond reproducing longer than the Northern. This reduces the need (%) of Flas that you need to maintain a viable population. IMO the best way to approach the situation , depending on goals is to stock only Fla females plus northern and Tigers. Stock a few (small % ) every couple of years to keep a ladder of potential trophy fish. For most people LMB strain and genetics is not a major factor in results. That is because the limiting factor for growth and condition in a high % of waters is not strain or genetics but is not enough food for the LMB. Without enough food LMB strain and genetics never get a chance to evidence results. Only with enough food and good water quality can the other factors make a difference.

Greg I have seen 12 lb F-1s but not heard of any bigger. No published info on the subjest that I have seen.

There is a lot here on the subject.

Last edited by Bill Cody; 12/19/22 10:52 AM.