The investigation to verify striped bass, Morone saxatilis (Walbaum), reproduction in Keystone Reservoir utilized egg sampling and shoreline seining methods. Conditions in the Arkansas River throughout the egg sampling period were unfavorable and seemed to indicate little chance for a successful spawn. However, on June 21, 1971, natural reproduction was verified. The total 1971 fingerling survival was calculated at 975,000. Ten mature females and four male striped bass were taken below Keystone dam by electrofishing during the period May 24 to June 3, 1971. These fish were transported 150 miles to hatchery facilities where artificial spawning was conducted. One seven-pound female was successfully spawned and fry were produced. Problems, procedures and resulting recommendations are discussed. Age and growth determinations and length-weight relationsips are presented.
