Texas Black Bass Observations and Blotchy Bass Syndrome Measurements Collected by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 2011–2023

This data release contains quality controlled records of citizen submitted observations of black bass (Micropterus spp.) provided to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) through public angler reporting programs. TPWD biologists reviewed, standardized, and anonymized these submissions before sharing the dataset with the U.S. Geological Survey for regional analysis of Blotchy Bass Syndrome (BBS). Each record includes species identification, date of observation, geographic location in decimal degrees, waterbody name and type, and when available, fish length and weight measurements. Observers noted the presence of BBS lesions, and for affected fish the proportion of the body surface showing blotchy pigmentation is reported. All records are georeferenced and standardized to support spatial and temporal analyses of BBS occurrence. These data contribute to ongoing research and management efforts to understand the distribution, prevalence, and ecological context of BBS in black bass populations and provide an important citizen science component within broader USGS fish health surveillance initiatives.