FISH DONATIONS

ANGLER DONATION RULES:

  1. All donations must be pre-approved by the Live Exhibits Manager or the Live Exhibits Operations Supervisor.
  2. Bass Pro Shops reserves the right to refuse any donation based upon reasons of fish health, display needs, or other.
  3. Anglers must always call Bass Pro Shops before transporting fish to ensure someone will able to accept the fish. All fish will be inspected upon delivery prior to taking possession.
  4. Bass Pro Shops must be contacted within 12 hours of catch; fish should be in Bass Pro Shops possession within 24 hours.
  5. Bass Pro Shops will not pay individuals who provide live fish or animals.
  6. Bass Pro Shops will not accept Endangered or Protected species.
  7. Anglers are responsible for abiding by all state and federal laws relating to fish capture, possession, and transportation. It is illegal in some areas to transport fish across state lines.

8.Upon donation, the fish becomes the sole property and responsibility of Bass Pro Shops.

SUCCESSFUL LIVE TRANSPORT:

  1. Handle the fish as little as possible. Handling damages the protective slime coat.
  2. Do not place the fish on a stringer; it would permanently damage the gills, reducing their chances for survival.
  3. Transport fish in a container large enough for them to fully extend without bending (at minimum).
  4. Do not use tap water to fill live well; it usually has chlorine or other potentially lethal chemicals. If possible, fill the live well with the same water from which the fish was caught - do not use water from docks or boat launch areas. There is a high probability of contamination in those waters.
  5. Do not hold fish temporarily in swimming pools, bath tubs, etc. as they usually contain harmful chemicals.
  6. After landing the fish, immediately place it in a well aerated live well. Warmer water can reduce oxygen - if the live well water is over 80 degrees, attempts should be made to slowly cool the water during transport (no more than 10 degrees every ½ hour).
  7. The addition of 1/2-1 cup ‘Table Salt’ will assist the fish.
  8. Transport fish immediately to reduce stress and increase chances for survival.
  9. Fish taken quickly out of deep water could have permanent swim bladder injuries.

PICTURES, ETC.

  1. Do not handle excessively or keep out of water for extended periods.
  2. Large fish (i.e. Bass) should not be lifted by the jaw alone. This could result in jawbone fractures, an injury that often is not noticeable for weeks or months.
  3. If necessary to hold for pictures, take care to support the entire body while touching the fish as little as possible.