If an LMB makes it 9" it is usually mature enough to mate. If this doesn't happen until Summer the following year then some will spawn at that time of year. They can in fact successfully spawn then (reference Swingle). LMB in tropical climates tend to spawn throughout the year and more than once a year. LMB in tropical climates tend to grow slower than in the southern US which is temperate in climate. They grow slower probably due to greater competition for forage that arises from more frequent spawning (of the LMB).
With regard to your spreadsheet, look at your axes and their limits. If it starts at 7, then 6" fish will not plot. Narrowing limits to a range that encompasses your data will have the effect spreading the data through the graph. This should make the data look much better in the chart.
On the age of the LMB at Solitude's managed lake in Virginia. I know that they are not all the same age. I think an estimate of 4 to 6 years of age is probably accurate (though perhaps with none of age 6). Dave Beasley, the manager, reported in a PB Magazine article that some fish were older than others. The example referenced described an older shorter fish of higher RW as compared to a heavier younger fish of lower RW. Beasley expressed an opinion that the fish with higher RW was inferior. Beasley and I are like minded regarding his analysis.
Last edited by jpsdad; 08/24/24 10:40 AM.
