Watch Landlocked: The Story of the Freshwater Striped Bass

Landlocked: The Story of the Freshwater Striped Bass is a fascinating documentary film that explores the history and conservation of one of America's most iconic game fish. The film stars Bryan Tankersley, a renowned expert on freshwater striped bass, who takes viewers on a journey from the early days of bass fishing to the present day, highlighting the challenges and issues facing the species along the way.

The film begins by tracing the evolution of striped bass from their origins in the Atlantic ocean to their introduction to freshwater lakes and rivers across America. Tankersley explains how the species was first introduced to inland waterways in the 1940s as a means of introducing a new game fish to anglers who were growing tired of the native species. Over time, however, the bass became a hugely popular sport fish, and many states began using hatcheries to stock local waterways, leading to an explosion in their numbers.

As the population of striped bass grew, however, so too did the challenges facing their conservation. In the 1980s, for example, a number of factors combined to create what many would describe as a perfect storm. Overfishing, combined with pollution and habitat destruction, led to a significant decline in the population of the species, threatening their very existence.

In Landlocked, Tankersley explores these challenges in detail, highlighting the various strategies that have been used to combat them over the years. From restocking programs to new legislation, the film covers a wide range of issues and examines the role that various agencies and organizations have played in the ongoing effort to conserve the species.

What makes Landlocked so compelling, however, is not just its informative content, but also the way in which it is presented. The film combines stunning footage of striped bass in their natural habitats with interviews with experts and passionate anglers who share their own stories and experiences. From the majesty of bass leaping out of the water to the thrill of hooking one on the line, the film captures the essence of what makes these fish so special to so many people.

Throughout the film, Tankersley also offers his own insights into the species in question, drawing on his extensive knowledge and experience to shed light on some of the lesser-known aspects of striped bass ecology and behavior. From the way they spawn to the types of bait and lures that are most effective, Tankersley helps viewers to gain a deeper understanding of the species and the role they play in the freshwater ecosystems of North America.

Ultimately, Landlocked is a must-watch film for anyone with an interest in fishing, conservation, or the natural world more broadly. With its engaging storytelling, beautiful cinematography, and compelling exploration of an important issue, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers and perhaps even inspire them to take action to protect the species for generations to come.