Record Invasive Alabama Bass Caught On Ocoee River
A new state record for Alabama Bass has been certified by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
The fish, weighing 7 pounds and 3 ounces, was caught by Caleb Bell on the Ocoee River, surpassing the previous record of 7 pounds set by Shane McKee in 2014 at Parksville Reservoir.
However, Alabama Bass are an invasive species that was introduced to Tennessee illegally, causing harm to the environment and native species.
- They impact numerous reservoirs associated with the Tennessee River.
- They jeopardize native bass populations, including Smallmouth Bass, through hybridization and competition for resources.
Alabama Bass have higher growth rates initially, but tend to overpopulate and remain relatively small.
Author's summary: Record Alabama Bass caught in Tennessee.