Door County Daily News Sports

Local Anglers Urged to Avoid Nest Fishing During Smallmouth Bass Spawn

Sturgeon Bay, WI – As the smallmouth bass spawn is in full swing in Door County, local anglers are being reminded of the importance of avoiding nest fishing to protect the fishery.

Renowned researcher David Philip, PhD, has emphasized the detrimental impact of fishing for nesting smallmouth bass during the spawning period. Once a male bass is taken off a nest, the nest is at risk of being lost as round gobies quickly move in to eat the eggs and fry. This can result in a significant decline in the bass population in the area.

Despite these warnings, many anglers are still seen trying to catch smallmouth bass off nests, especially on weekends when fishing pressure is at its peak. This has raised concerns among conservationists and residents who are passionate about preserving the local environment.

Door County residents are known for their environmental awareness, and there is a growing call for more closed areas during the spawn to protect the bass population. Areas like the Mink River and Washington Island have already been designated as closed areas during the spawn to help safeguard the fishery.

Local angler and kayak fishing pro Bill Schultz is urging fellow anglers to prioritize conservation efforts and avoid nest fishing during this critical time. For those interested in learning more about the impact of nest fishing on smallmouth bass, Schultz is offering a copy of his article with Dr. Philipps via email at kayakfishingwisconsin@gmail.com.

As the smallmouth bass spawn continues, it is crucial for anglers to be mindful of their impact on the fishery and take steps to protect this valuable resource for future generations.