PFBC Biologists from the Fisheries Management Division conducted their regular night electrofishing sampling of the annual walleye spawning run out of Raystown Lake into Great Trough Creek on March 29, 2004. The Raystown Lake walleye population sustains its numbers through natural reproduction. This one night electrofishing effort provides a snapshot of Raystown Lake's walleye abundance, age and growth. It also provides additional information on this species to fisheries surveys conducted on the entire lake.

Area Fisheries Manager Larry Jackson talks with observers, which numbered over 70 by start of the after dark activities

Total catch of walleye was 35 in 2004. The catch comprised 30 males ranging in length from 20 to 25 inches and 5 females ranging in length from 24 to 28 inches in length. The largest male was 25 inches and 5 pounds 12 ounces. The 5 largest males averaged 24 inches and 5 pounds. The largest female measured 28 inches and over 9 pounds. The 5 largest females measured 26 inches and 7 pounds 5 ounces.

Gravid, green or unspent fish (females were holding their eggs) with mostly males in the catch suggests the spawning run (influenced by water temperature) was in its early stages.

Fisheries staff sample walleye population by electrofishing in Great Trough Creek

(left to right) Southcentral Fisheries Technician John Frederick, Area Fisheries Manager Larry Jackson and Warmwater Fisheries Technician Dave Kristine measure, weigh and take a scale sample for walleye age

Fisheries Technician John Frederick and Fish Culturist Rob Brown show off some nice walleyes

Area Fisheries Manager Larry Jackson with another nice walleye

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