In recent years, the older and larger female striped bass, which are required by hatchery personnel for spawning purposes, have become less common in annual broodstock collection efforts. Recent research indicates a high catch and harvest rate of female striped bass greater than 24 inches from the lower Ochlockonee River, which is the desired size to optimize spawning potential. Managers want to reduce the harvest of mature females since they are vital for hatchery production and the ongoing conservation of the species.