Battle at the Canal

KEEPING BASS HEALTHY IN THE LIVE WELL

1. FILL YOUR LIVE WELL EARLY IN THE DAY OR NIGHT!

2. TURN ON THE RECIRCULATING AERATOR IMMEDIATELY!

Set pump switch on manual (continuous operation)
Run continuously all day.
If aerator must run on a timer, run as often as possible.
If boat does not have a recirculating aeration system, add one!
This is a must to provide proper aeration while the boat is moving or on the trailer.

3. LAND FISH QUICKLY, AVOIDING DAMAGE TO SLIME COATING!

Grasp fish by lower jaw only, holding them vertically.
Support large fish with a wet hand under the belly.
Use soft, knotless nylon or rubber landing nets.
Do not allow fish to touch boat carpet and rub off protective slime.
Remove hooks quickly with as little tissue damage as possible.
Remove deep hooks carefully. When attempts fail, cut line five or six inches above the hook.
Don't keep fish out of water longer than you can hold your breath.

4. KEEP FISH IN REAR LIVE WELLS IF VOLUME IS SUFFICIENT!

Fish in forward live wells are more likely to be injured from bouncing during rough water travel.
Distribute fish evenly between rear live well compartments.

5. PUMP FRESH WATER REGULARLY!

When water temperatures are below 75 degrees, pump fresh water as often as possible.

6. ADD ICE & SALT!

When water temperatures are above 75 degrees, recirculate live well water.
Do not rather pump in hot lake water.
Ice cools the water and slows the fish' metabolism.
One 8-pound block of ice cools water in a 30-gallon live well about 10 degrees for three hours.
Adjust the amount of ice according to live well size.
Block ice melts slower and can be stored for later use.
Monitor live well water temperatures.
Non-iodized salt (available from farm feed stores).
Helps maintain electrolyte balance and reduces the effects of stress.
Add 1/3 cup per five gallons. Pre-measure salt into zip-lock bags.
Add Catch & Release® as directed.
Drain half of the live well water every three hours.
Refill with fresh water to remove toxic waste products (CO2 and ammonia).
Add 1/2 the amount of ice, salt and Catch & Release® each time.

7. OXYGEN DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Oxygen from pressurized cylinder is delivered directly into live well through air-stone or hose.
Must have regulator or pressure valve. Pressurized tank must be securely mounted.
Solves oxygen demand problems.
Usually less need for water temperature adjustments but adding salt is still recommended.
Periodic flushing (every two-three hours) with fresh water is also required.
Better than simple aeration (air is only 21% oxygen)

For more information contact:

Gene Gilliland
Oklahoma Fishery Research Laboratory
Voice: 405-325-7288
E-mail: ggillokla@aol.com

Other Tips regarding Livewell and fish care