Comparison of a Length Size Limit of Northern Pike Population on Two Lakes in North Central Minnesota

Authors

Ethan A. Puttonen

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Fisheries managers use length size limits on northern pike (Esox lucis) to improve the size structure in select lakes. The objective of this study was to compare two similar lakes, one with a length size limit and one without, to determine if a length size limit is improving the northern pike size structure. Blueberry Lake showed a higher abundance of larger fish than Stocking Lake. Of the fish caught, 25% in Blueberry Lake were over 600 mm (24 in), and were in the protected slot. Stocking Lake had a smaller portion of fish of this size with only 7% over 600 mm. In Stocking Lake there was a significant negative relationship between length and Wr indicating the more abundant small fish in are out-competing the larger fish for prey. Higher abundance of larger size northern pike with higher levels of Wr were found in Blueberry Lake indicating the length size limit is having a positive influence on the size structure in Blueberry Lake.

Publication Date

2013

Comments

Faculty sponsor: Dr. Andrew Hafs, Department of Biology, Aquatic Biology Program, Dr. Richard Koch, Department of Biology

Recommended Citation

Puttonen, Ethan A., "Comparison of a Length Size Limit of Northern Pike Population on Two Lakes in North Central Minnesota" (2013). Journal of Earth and Life Science. 54.
https://pines.bemidjistate.edu/j-earth-life-sci/54