Generally, I do not regard algae whether filamentous or otherwise being a problem for nesting bass. The male digs the nest out just prior to spawning and nest remains relatively debris free long enough for eggs to hatch and often even long enough for fry to swim up. Thereafter the algae is not a issue in the nest itself. What I do not like about filamentous algae is that is does not support a good forage base like phytoplankton and and attached diatoms can. That forage base can be an issue for growth of the fry through fingerling stages.
Cody note: this is very good practical experience and advice from Jim. Jim is correct, once fresh or algae free gravel is exposed in the nest area it takes several weeks or longer for FA to reestablish to a condition where it will deter SMB spawning, egg hatch, and fry swim-up. Critical then becomes having a good balance of zooplankton species to encourage good fry growth. Don't forget that good habitat and cover is also important to minimize predation by other fishes of the fry, assuming that production of bass recruitment is important.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 01/19/21 11:02 AM.
