Paddlefish Data
Since the RPC officially opened in spring 2008, a significant amount of never before available data have been collected. Biologists continue to collect data via traditional methods, however angler-caught fish information is now being collected, to better evaluate the Grand Lake paddlefish population. Below are three forms of data now being used by ODWC to make paddlefish management decisions.
RPC Fish Data
In 2008 4,200 fish were checked into the RPC. Another 7,400 fish were brought into the RPC in 2009. About 60 percent of the fish processed in 2009 were male and their average weight was 26.7 lbs. The remaining 40 percent were female and their average weight was 36.0 lbs.
Jaw bones removed from all processed fish revealed that the spawning population of Grand Lake paddlefish for the past two years has been dominated by fish spawned in 1999.
Weather and Netting Data
Weather is a significant factor in the spawning success of paddlefish. During the 1999 spring spawn (Feb. – May), there were 16 days of high flow in the Neosho River.
By combining the known factor that spawning conditions were good in 1999 with the subsequent increases in paddlefish caught during netting, biologist knew that anglers would be experiencing some great snagging when these fish reached sexual maturity. The angler-caught fish brought into the RPC for processing the past two years helps confirm that the spawn of 1999 resulted in a great year class of fish.
Netting data show that the numbers of paddlefish in the Grand River system has increased since the mid 1990’s. Although the population is growing, netting data also indicate that subsequent year classes are not as strong as the class of 1999.
The good flow year of 1999 was followed by several less than optimal years of stream flow (2000–2007). All had nine or fewer days where water levels reached the optimum flow for paddlefish.
Netting data collected at the RPC and weather data are all being used by biologists to make paddlefish management decisions.
Weak year classes subsequent to that of 1999 and data on increasing angler numbers are the key reasons for ODWC making changes to the 2010 paddlefish regulations.
Paddlefish Permit Data
Anglers who snag for paddlefish must obtain a free paddlefish permit. This is vital as well to the overall decision-making process in regards to current and future regulations. Biologists use paddlefish permit data to determine angler use, motives, and satisfaction.
Based on the number of paddlefish permits issued in 2009 and the results of a postseason angler survey, about 15,400 anglers fished for paddlefish during the spring run. This was an increase of about 2,000 anglers from 2008, indicating the growing popularity of this fishery.
In just its second year of operation the post angler survey showed nearly 65 percent of these anglers had their kept paddlefish processed by the RPC. Nearly half of the anglers using the RPC in 2009 were non-residents, indicating that the fishery is valued as a regional resource, not simply to Oklahomans. Given various choices about their paddlefish experience in 2009, anglers indicated that the fun and excitement of paddlefishing combined with the chance of catching a big fish were the most important aspects of their experience.
What the Future Holds
Due to the RPC, biologists know more than they ever have about the paddlefish in the Grand River system. The fishing is great and the fishery is growing in popularity. Netting shows that the paddlefish population is still very good and with proper management anglers can look forward to years of good snagging.
Although conditions were similar to 1999, it is a little early to predict the future in regards to the 2008 and 2009 spawn. Over the next few years of netting, biologists will determine if the optimal spawning conditions did in fact produce one or two back-to-back strong year classes similar to 1999.
As an agency, ODWC is responsible for management of this resource. Our goal is to actively monitor and manage the angler pressure on the population to ensure that the resource will be enjoyed by future generations. Recreational anglers can do their part in helping manage and enhance the fishery by 1) knowing the regulations, 2) practicing catch-and-release, 3) not targeting spawning females, 4) reporting banded paddlefish, and 5) using the services of the RPC for kept fish.