AbstractThe objective of this study was to determine significant factors influencing mortality ofBlack Bass during competitive fishing tournaments held within the United States. Competitivetournaments (n = 63) were sampled in 6 states and Puerto Rico. To collect data, we searchedthrough numerous fisheries journals and collected data on 27 different variables of tournamentspotentially related to initial, delayed, or total mortality. Our results suggest that temperature (bothair and water temperature) is the most influential factor in determining mortality of tournamentcaught Black Bass. Additionally, angler hours, state, latitude, and elevation may affecttournament-caught Bass welfare. These results may be used to implement strategies andregulations that lower tournament-related mortality rates, promote Black Bass welfare duringcompetitive tournaments,and maintain healthy bass fisheries.IntroductionEach year in the United States many Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides) andSmallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu) tournaments are conducted. In 2000,there were nearly30,000 anglers who competed in tournaments at least once per year, and that number is growing.(Edwards 2003). In 2003, more than 20,000 individuals participated in at least one tournament inCalifornia alone(Edwards 2003).These tournaments provide a stimulus for local economies. Asingle tournament in Lake Fork, Texas generated $126,434 of which $101,061 was contributedby non-local tournament participants (Schlechte 2012). Another tournament contributed$177,533 to the area surrounding Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Texas (Schlechte 2012). Despite thepositive effect of tournaments on local economies, they often have a detrimental effect on