Watauga Gill Netting 2007
Sampling Date: December 11, 2007
Species collected in survey (7 net nights):
Walleye - 66
Seven experimental gill nets were used for sampling Watauga Reservoir walleye on December 11, 2007. The nets were set from near the dam upstream to the confluence of the Elk and Watauga Rivers. Sixty-six walleye were collected for size structure and age and growth analysis.
The sample included an excellent distribution of various size fish. The bulk (61%) were between 16 and 22-inches while over half were over the 18-inch minimum size limit. A good number of 11 to 15-inch walleye will ensure a quality fishery for the next few years. We did not collect many small walleye in 2006, but this did not seem to adversely effect the 2007 sample. The condition (Wr) of only a few fish were slightly below normal. Watauga's walleye population is very stable and is a high quality fishery.
Length frequency of Watauga Reservoir walleye - 2007
Condition of Watauga Reservoir walleye - 2007
