A central database, designed and managed by the Service, stores stocking information, migratory data from tag returns and other information upon which management decisions are based. Anglers returned more than 30,000 of these tags by 1993. These hatchery-reared striped bass provide managers with information about population dynamics, growth and migratory patterns. In 1988, hatchery fish comprised nearly 50 percent of Maryland juvenile striped bass in some rivers like the Patuxent. Today, as hoped, wild fish far outnumber hatchery fish.
Evaluations continue on the potential contribution of hatchery fish to depleted stocks.
During the years of the moratorium in Maryland, fishery managers continued to monitor striped bass populations in Chesapeake Bay. In particular, the juvenile index survey was closely watched. The striped bass management plan set a goal for loosening restrictions based on this index. The juvenile indices averaged from 1987 to 1989 met the management plan goal. In 1989, both Virginia and Maryland lifted their moratoriums on striped bass.