This study was conducted to identify habitat factors responsible for the success or failure of a striped bass (Morone saxatilis) x white bass (Morone chrysops) hybrid introduction and to measure fisherman benefits from the stocking. Hybrids were introduced into Lake Bastrop, Texas, at a rate of approximately 25 fish! ha in 1973, 1974, and 1975. From 1973 through 1977 water samples were analyzed to monitor physicochemical conditions; seining, gillnetting and cove rotenone sampling were accomplished to estimate composition offish populations; and creel surveys were conducted to measure fisherman effort and harvest. Hybrids exhibited high survival rates but apparently there was insufficient forage to sustain their initial rapid growth. Despite this condition, hybrids attained weights up to 2.0 kg and provided substantial fisherman benefits in terms of harvest and recreation. The monetary value of these benefits was approximately 12 times greater than the costs of the hybrid introduction.
