Mississippi wildlife officials launch bass tagging study at Ross Barnett Reservoir

Biologists from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks recently began a largemouth bass tagging study at Ross Barnett Reservoir. The project involves fitting bass over 19 inches with orange T-bar tags to monitor their survival, growth, and movement after tournaments.

At the time of release, biologists record each fish’s length, weight, and tag number. They rely on anglers to report recaptures, which helps build a clearer picture of how the fish use the reservoir over time. More than 200 bass, including several trophy-sized fish, have been tagged so far, according to MDWFP.

Anglers are encouraged to assist with the research by reporting any tagged bass they catch outside of tournament settings. To do so, they should text the tag number, capture location, a photograph of the tag, and whether the fish was released or harvested to (601) 691-4874. If the fish is released, anglers should leave the tag in place, as the study is ongoing. The tags do not have monetary or prize value, the agency said.

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