Effects of Introducing Walleye to Stunted Bluegill Populations



Scott A. Lakey
School of Science and Natural Resources
Lake Superior State University
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783






Abstract:	Many people throughout Michigan enjoy pursuing large
bluegill (Lepomis inacrochirus) .  However, many lakes are unable to
produce bluegill larger than seven inches, and are said to be stunted.
Stocking walleye (Stizostedian vitreum) is one method used to try and
stop this problem.  The objectives in this study were to decrease
bluegill competition by stocking walleye and to create a sport fishery
for both walleye and large bluegill.  The two lakes sampled in this
study were Saddle Lake and Selkirk Lake.  Each of these Michigan lakes
had a stunted bluegill problem.  Saddle Lake was used as a control
and Selkirk Lake was stocked with 1410 walleye in 1990.  In both
lakes, trapnet samples were taken on an annual basis from 1990-1996 to
monitor population structures.  Chi-square analysis indicated a
significant difference (p=O.OOl) between the two lakes.  Preferred
relative stock density indicated major population structure changes in
Selkirk Lake, and little change in Saddle Lake.  A conclusion was made
based on the degree of significance between Saddle and Selkirk Lake.
Competition was reduced through the stocking of walleye and a sport
fishery was created for both walleye and bluegill.




Selected References

Bennet, D.H. and T.J. McArthur.  1990.  Predicting success of walleye
stocking programs in the United States and Canada.  Fisheries
15:19-23.

Ellison, D.G. and W.G. Franzlin.  1992.  Overview of the symposium on
walleye stocks and stocking.  North American Journal of Fisheries Management
12:271-5.

Santucci, V.J. and D.H. WahI. 1993.  Factors influencing survival and
growth of stocked walleye (Stizostedian vitreum) in a
centrarchid-dominated impoundment.  Canadian Journal of Fisheries and
Aquatic Sciences 50:1548-58.