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Fisheries Science of Ukraine, 2026; 2(76): 48-69
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61976/fsu2026.02.048
UDC 639.371.6:639.2

Received: 11.04.2026
Received in revised form: 27.05.2026
Published: 30.06.2026

Largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides Lacepede, 1802) as an object of recreational and sport fishing (а review)

D. Pylypenko, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , ORCID ID 0009-0001-1042-2093, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv
O. Okhrimenko, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , ORCID ID 0000-0001-9867-0595, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv

Purpose. The purpose of the work is to summarize world experience and analyse the ecological and biological features of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides Lacepede, 1802) to substantiate the prospects for its use as a priority object of recreational and sport fishing in Ukraine in the conditions of modern climate change. The implementation of this approach is aimed at diversifying the fisheries sector, developing the recreational potential of water bodies, and increasing the investment attractiveness of the ecotourism sector.

Methodology. The research methodology is based on a comprehensive analysis of domestic and foreign scientific publications, statistical reports of fisheries organizations as well as the results of specialized sports tournaments. The study is aimed at analysing the ecological, biological and behavioural characteristics of largemouth bass, which determine its significant popularity in the field of recreational and sport fishing. In particular, the peculiarities of the species’ adaptation to the ecosystems of domestic water bodies, its role in the transformation of trophic chains, and resistance to physiological stress under conditions of intensive fishing were considered. A systematic approach was used to summarize data on the naturalization of the species in Ukrainian conditions and to form a scientific basis for managing its resources as a priority object of amateur and sport fishing.

Findings. It has been found that despite a long history of introduction attempts, the distribution of the species at the current stage remains localized mainly within private and specialized pond farms. This is due to the need to ensure strict human control over the state of populations in aquatic ecosystems. Based on the ecological and biological characteristics of the species, key factors that determine its attractiveness as an object of recreational and sport fishing have been identified. In particular, aggressive predatory behaviour, territoriality, and high activity during the warm season make largemouth bass a priority target for the development of modern sport fishing culture. Analysis of the dynamics of specialized events indicates a steady growth of interest in sport fishing tournaments, which stimulates the demand for the development of new approaches to resource management of this species.

Practical Value. The practical importance of the study lies in the possibility of implementing the conclusions obtained for the further development of sport fishing based on the “catch-and-release” principle. This approach contributes to the preservation of biodiversity as well as increases the recreational potential and attractiveness of water bodies for recreation and environmentally responsible use of natural resources.

Keywords: acclimatization, catch-and-release, recreational potential, green tourism, introduction, fishing.

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