Slot limit

[blacknoseddace]

Just wondering...do you guys think a slot limit on Bass at Stockton would improve the population of sizable fish? If it did, I would be all for it. We would all love the prospect of catching 3 to 5 lb fish commonly, rather than an exception. I'm not against keeping Bass, but would love to see a sustainable population of quality fish for everyone to enjoy.

[mjk86]

I dont think a slot limit would increase the amount of large bass in stockton. Stockton has plenty of giants, most of whom nobody will ever catch. We like to blame our lack of big fish skills on all the meat fisherman taking out all the bass. Doesnt work that way. This thread is a disaster waiting to happen....About 100 posts down youll prolly apologize for asking this.

[blacknoseddace]

I'm talking 3 to 5 lb fish. But, you may be right.

[mjk86]

I may be wrong in my understanding of the benefits of a slot limit. It seems like it would be most beneficial in a lake with a large population of slow growing fish (stunted). Like a smaller lake with an overpopulation of small fish. Maybe someone who knows more about it could chime in? This is actually a good thread, but ones like this can and do devolve very quickly into nonsense.

[Flysmallie]

That's a list of the fish submitted for big bass in one tournament on May 9th (71 boats weighing fish). I don't think it's as bad as what it seems. Stockton can be a tough lake but if you take the time to learn and try something new you will eventually be rewarded.

[blacknoseddace]

Can't imagine that happening. Lol!

[Flysmallie]

And take a look at 1st place. 5 fish, 16.00 lbs with a 5.68. Subtract the big fish from the total and you still have 10.32 lbs in 4 fish. That's better that 2.5 lbs each.

[5bites]

I really don't think it would help unless the forage to bass ratio is off. Right now Stockton seems to be a healthy lake plenty of keepers to be had.

I may be wrong but I don't know that there are enough people keeping to make a difference anyway. It's not like crappie and walleye where 99% of the people chasing them fully intend to keep them. They have a great population too. Walleye being stocked of course.

[blacknoseddace]

Good point 5bites, I agree.

[Hammer time]

I would love to see a state wide 17in minimum on all bass. Think of the quality fishing we would have!