ewest has a good point of "It Depends". One additional factor IMO affecting predtion of bass to GSH or even other prey species is Water Clarity. I think there are likely certain water clarities that have a big influence on how well a bass can capture prey items. Maybe ewest can search the literature for this topic. Water clarity could explain some of the variability of bass predation success of consuming prey foods. What was the water clarity for the predation probability function of jpsdad's referenced study? I assume the experiment for the probability function was conducted in a tank or aquarium. IMO fish research studies done in tanks are significantly different conditions than are the widely variable environmental possibilities that exist for predation success in 'wild' pond habitats.
For my comment on esshup's large 8" - 9.25" GSH and none survived more than 4 months, is these GSH were likely old near end of life fish as noted by jpsdad. We also have consider how well these GSH endured capture, transport variables, and release. esshup being a fish hauler and seller knows well that a released fish that appears to freely swim away does not mean it will in reality survive.
What happens physically to all old fish as they approach end of life? How does water quality affect their old age physicality? I think the human weakened body condition of old age also affects fish. IMO many of them as older, weak, slower individuals get swallowed if they can be swallowed. I have always wondered what happens to all those end of life short life span FHM that evey one stocks? Forage fishes all tend to have relatively short life spans to a weakened condition compared to the basses and larger predators.
Research says that ponds at capacity generally that if 25% to 30% of pond fish are not harvested each year, those fish will experience some form of "natural' mortality. Harvest them or lose them. Do you have a pond at carrying capacity? Even if the mortality was just 15% - 20%, where are all these dead fish and what happens to all the 25% of 30% of the fishery that dies each year especially if you do not see them floating???
Last edited by Bill Cody; 12/15/25 04:10 PM.
