Larry Cofer, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, HC 32, Box 580, Lawton, OK 73501

Abstract. Based on its history of producing largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides over 3.6 kg, Lake Fuqua was one of ten Oklahoma reservoirs designated as "Trophy Bass" lakes. The objectives were to improve angler satisfaction by maintaining or increasing catch rates of bass (all sizes), and increasing catches of trophy bass in selected state waters. Management strategies were regulating harvest with highly restrictive length limits, stocking Florida-strain bass, and maintaining quality bass habitat. Lake Fuqua was regulated by a 356-558 mm slot limit for bass beginning in 1990, after anglers caught an Oklahoma state record largemouth and many others over 3.6 kg in the late 1980s. Sampling through 1993 indicated that the harvest restriction did increase the abundance of slot-sized bass in the lake, but relative weights of protected bass were slightly lower. Anglers were encouraged to harvest bass below the slot limit, and the limit was raised to 406-584 mm in 1995 to reduce the competition and improve condition of bass. By 1997, however, relative weights had declined significantly and bass reproduction was impaired. Anglers complained about low catch rates and emaciated bass, and recorded catches of "trophy" largemouth bass declined through the period. Accordingly, the trophy bass slot regulation was suspended at Lake Fuqua.