Invasive species Talipia in the Tennessee River

A friend of mine just got back from the Gallitan Steam Plant on the Tennessee River. They caught 60 Tilapia in one day and said they were so thick in there that it was unbelievable. He says they got into the river in a flood from a farm where they were raising them. Sounds like the Asian Carp story.

He heard reports that they are not supposed to live in water below 45 degrees but they have noticed them adapting.

They are a very spinney fish to the point that you have to be real careful when you handle them and because of this they are getting caught in mouths or some game fish.

He says they taste like Red Ear.

Does anyone have any idea about what bait was being used and how they were caught? Inquiring minds would like to know?

Sounds like they have taken advantage of the warm water discharge. I would think that's the only reason they can survive our winters.