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Wyoming => Ice Fishing Wyoming => Topic started by: MountainMan on Jan 20, 2011, 05:27 PM

Title: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MountainMan on Jan 20, 2011, 05:27 PM
Our Wyoming Game and Fish has offered to volunteer their valuable time to answer our questions. Please keep in mind that their time on the site is very limited, and that not all questions may be answered. Hopefully this thread can be used by both sides to gain valuable insight. Please maintain the Q&A nature of the thread by reserving discussion for separate threads.

All G&F employees are invited to use the thread as a resource to share information, news and events affecting Wyoming sportsmen.

On behalf of our members, I thank the Wyoming G&F for taking the time to contribute to the site and it's members.  :clap:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: LT on Jan 20, 2011, 07:20 PM
Nice touch Z-man, "Build it, they (G&F) will come."  ;)    Don
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: er-e-is on Jan 20, 2011, 09:35 PM
What is WG&F's opinion of "Fizzing". I have done it with lakers, now I have a weight that I hook through the fish's gillplate and lower them back down. I seems to work. I try and land them slowly and let them naturally release their air bladder, sometimes they don't, sometimes friends retrieve them too fast. Thanks for agreeing to participate in this forum.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 21, 2011, 07:54 AM
I have heard that large female walleyes contribute little if any to the spawning efforts of the walleyes in any body of water, that their spawn is not viable. So what are the facts ? Do large females, say 28" and up, contribute in any meaningfull way to the spawn in a body of water where natural reproduction is successfull ?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 21, 2011, 08:34 AM
What is WG&F's opinion of "Fizzing". I have done it with lakers, now I have a weight that I hook through the fish's gillplate and lower them back down. I seems to work. I try and land them slowly and let them naturally release their air bladder, sometimes they don't, sometimes friends retrieve them too fast. Thanks for agreeing to participate in this forum.
I honestly don't know much about it and have only experienced it a few times. When I have encounted blown air bladders (fishing Boysen) I end up keeping the fish anyway. Hopefully someone will have better expertise on this compared with me.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 21, 2011, 09:04 AM
Walleye spawning, do they stop after a certain age / size or decrease the hatch rate as they get older?   

There has been quite the heated topic on keyhole about people taking bigger walleyes and not letting them go. 

If you could start a thread, or even pm me back links to wy fish and game where it says how it goes for when they get older I will post it.

This is a question I received and a question that a lot of you had on the Keyhole Slaughter. I did a search and found some good info. Keep in mind every water is different, every population is different, thus every study was different. This is just a synopsis of some of their findings.

From studies that I've reviewed: there is no significant variation in egg viability among sizes of females. Both large and small walleye females have the potential to reproduce successfully.

Egg size is strongly correlated with maternal size (female) in walleye populations in the North and South latitudes, not nearly as strongly correlated within the Mid-latitude populations. Egg size has and hasn't been correlated with suvivorship (depends on the study)

The high metabolic energy demand of older larger females may reduce the quality of the eggs

If quality can be correlated with size, it's logical to assume that mid-size females should produce the highest quality

Fecundity - the capacity to produce offspring

14 to 15 inch walleye 25,500 eggs
19 to 20 inch walleye 64,000 eggs
28 to 29 inch walleye 191,000 eggs

Because recruitment is affected by such a large suite of factors (density-dependent = spawner density, predator-prey relationships, available habitat ect... and density-independent = environmental factors, springtime water temps ect...) the important factors operating on recruitment may vary from one system to another, from year to year, for a given fish species.

Clear as Mud? It appears through my literature search and as you might guess, every walleye population is different. There is no clear-cut given rule on what size of fish is the best spawner. Some say (as mentioned above) that a mid-size fish may have the best quality of egg, but look at the egg numbers, a big fish may have double the egg capacity of a mid-size fish. Might work out to be a "wash". More eggs, more chance to survive, fewer high quality eggs perhaps a better chance to survive.

I really don't have a strong opinion either way as far as what fish to keep and what fish to let go. Natural recruitment is a limiting factor within Keyhole, that's why we stock. But with the increase in water levels the last few years, we have seen lots of natural recruitment (about 50%). Perhaps some self-regulation and by that I mean, keep a good one from time to time (for the wall ect..), keep some smaller ones for the frying pan from time to time. Got fish in the feezer already, let some go. Just my thoughts.

Hope this helps




 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 21, 2011, 10:16 AM
Perhaps some self-regulation and by that I mean, keep a good one from time to time (for the wall ect..), keep some smaller ones for the frying pan from time to time. Got fish in the feezer already, let some go.


Thanks for your reply and your time. The above quote is pretty much how I do things. The question was not necessarily aimed at Keyhole,I have never fished there, just more of a general question. Just have often seen it claimed that large walleye do not have viable eggs. From your answer I see that large females have the potential to greatly impact a spawn cycle with other factors having more of a effect on the success of the spawn.


My next question: How would a limit on walleye of only one fish over 24",as part of the regular limit, effect a fishery ? Could it have a negative impact or would it just increase the trophy potential of a given body of water ? In general.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Jan 21, 2011, 10:31 AM
Thank you on the spawning information.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Jan 21, 2011, 11:54 AM
Because of the type of fishing we do in the winter, tip-up lines and live bait, fish have the opportunity to swallow baits to so deep that at times you can not even see the eye of the hook.. So how much chance do they have to survive  with the hook left in them?  I know you can not retrieve the hook with out causing some damage.

 In the summer on a Friday before the Wyoming walleye governors cup tournament I found 4 large walleyes floating on the surface dead. I am quite sure they were catch and released fish and the fisherman were trying to do the right thing, still a big shame. Some times say I let it go was the wrong thing to do.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 21, 2011, 05:21 PM
Thanks for opening this thread to the WGFD.  I look forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region.  I will be happy to address all issues on fish management of waters you might frequent.  When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in southeast Wyoming.  I am excited about participating in the Ice Shanty community. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 21, 2011, 05:25 PM
Thanks for opening this thread to the WGFD.  I look forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region.  I will be happy to address all issues on fish management of waters you might frequent.  When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in southeast Wyoming.  I am excited about participating in the Ice Shanty community. 


Welcome to Iceshanty, good to have you on board
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Jan 21, 2011, 08:48 PM
I have a question about Glendo,
Why does it seem like there is a smaller population of larger walleye in it? ( 24"- 32")

There is sooooo much food, cover, lack of competition, etc...
And yet we rarely here of any fish breaking the 3lb mark. Compared to other lakes in Wyoming with fewer walleye and less available food.

Thanks for your time guys. This is great having you on here!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: LT on Jan 21, 2011, 09:37 PM
Thanks for opening this thread to the WGFD.  I look forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region.  I will be happy to address all issues on fish management of waters you might frequent.  When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in southeast Wyoming.  I am excited about participating in the Ice Shanty community. 
This is great, having you guys here will be a fantastic learning experience, thanks much for joining...btw, just fyi, you won't be able to answer pm's until you have five posts, so if you answer all your "welcomes", you'll be there, well...tonight probably. Don  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: stinkypete on Jan 21, 2011, 10:04 PM
Thanks for getting the WGFD involved in IS!  I look forward to reading the questions and answers. 

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyohikeit on Jan 22, 2011, 12:06 AM
SO here is a new Question


  Why is there so much water being let out of Upper Sunshine now?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mtelkhunter on Jan 22, 2011, 08:05 AM
Kudos to you Wyoming guys, this is one of the best thread ideas out there, and I will watch it closely.  Much of the information these G&F guys are dispensing crosses state lines and helps me understand what our guys are doing over here in SoDak.

Thank you WY!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 4cator on Jan 22, 2011, 08:09 AM

Welcome to Iceshanty, good to have you on board

Well said, indeed. 
welcome to the shanty, I am sure you will get much attention and questions.  Great job and thanks again for being here for us

laters
da Cator
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gulp on Jan 22, 2011, 05:43 PM
I too would like to thank you for taking the time to join the sight. It is great that you take the time out to help us all out, and WELCOME TO IS.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Jan 22, 2011, 09:29 PM
Now this is what we need more of!! I think sometimes all the work you guys do is very under appreciated. Thanks for taking the time to join ice shanty and give all of us some very valuable and usefull info.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyo700 on Jan 22, 2011, 10:53 PM
is it required to carry a picture id with your fishing liscence? 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: HARDTOP on Jan 22, 2011, 11:05 PM
Glad to have you on the shanty my question is it legal to have or use for bait cisco from bear lake? I know some old boys from jackson that use to fish with them and swear that it's the only bate for BIG macks. They have since passed on but is it now legal??? Thanks for your report.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: er-e-is on Jan 23, 2011, 07:17 AM
No, they are not legal, pg. 9 in the reg book, under "Methods" states only the eggs may be used.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: HARDTOP on Jan 23, 2011, 11:51 AM
I see in the regs. it is legal to chum with fish parts are cisco included???
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 24, 2011, 09:39 AM
Perhaps some self-regulation and by that I mean, keep a good one from time to time (for the wall ect..), keep some smaller ones for the frying pan from time to time. Got fish in the feezer already, let some go.


Thanks for your reply and your time. The above quote is pretty much how I do things. The question was not necessarily aimed at Keyhole,I have never fished there, just more of a general question. Just have often seen it claimed that large walleye do not have viable eggs. From your answer I see that large females have the potential to greatly impact a spawn cycle with other factors having more of a effect on the success of the spawn.


My next question: How would a limit on walleye of only one fish over 24",as part of the regular limit, effect a fishery ? Could it have a negative impact or would it just increase the trophy potential of a given body of water ? In general.
Good question. This is pretty much refered to as a "maximum" size limit, whereas only one walleye over 24" and the rest under 24". These regulations are used when: it's necessary to protect the broodstock, the walleye population is a highly exploited population, there is a low density of mature fish, and there is low recruitment. This could, over time, increase to trophy potential. But keep in mind, the fishery must be highly exploited for any regulation to take affect. To my knowledge (other WGF'ers can help me out here) Glendo is the only walleye fishery with a high enough harvest for a regulation to work (that's why there is a minimum reg). So possibly over time, with any type of regulation (max length,  minimum, or slot limit), the risk of "bunching" (most fish are of one or two size classes) exists (unless it's been determined, like Glendo, that there is enough harvest for the reg to work). Hope this helps.   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 24, 2011, 09:53 AM
Because of the type of fishing we do in the winter, tip-up lines and live bait, fish have the opportunity to swallow baits to so deep that at times you can not even see the eye of the hook.. So how much chance do they have to survive  with the hook left in them?  I know you can not retrieve the hook with out causing some damage.

 In the summer on a Friday before the Wyoming walleye governors cup tournament I found 4 large walleyes floating on the surface dead. I am quite sure they were catch and released fish and the fisherman were trying to do the right thing, still a big shame. Some times say I let it go was the wrong thing to do.
Excellent point here. And I don't have that great of an answer. It comes down to your own judgement IMO. If the fish was hooked "bad", there was a little blood coming out of the gills, it took a little extra time to get the hook out, then the likelyhood of the fish making it may be reduced and perhaps it should go to your creel.

In any instance where an angler catches a fish and releases it, there is always the possibility of "hooking mortality", it's just part of the game. But once again, this may come down to the fishermans best judgement. Anglers may want to pay attention to the health of the fish and conditions that the fish was caught (i.e., spring, summer, fall, water temps, depth ect.). For instance, if a walleye was caught in April or May and everything went smoothly (getting out the hook, fish didn't swallow it, water temps were cool) the fish stands a really good chance of survival after release. However, if you caught a fish in the middle of August, in 35 foot of water, and surface temps were 73 degrees, and it took a moment to get the hook out, it may be better to harvest that fish because of all the stress.

Excellent topic. But there is no clear-cut answer. The angler just has to use their best judgement IMO. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 24, 2011, 09:59 AM
Good question. This is pretty much refered to as a "maximum" size limit, whereas only one walleye over 24" and the rest under 24". These regulations are used when: it's necessary to protect the broodstock, the walleye population is a highly exploited population, there is a low density of mature fish, and there is low recruitment. This could, over time, increase to trophy potential. But keep in mind, the fishery must be highly exploited for any regulation to take affect. To my knowledge (other WGF'ers can help me out here) Glendo is the only walleye fishery with a high enough harvest for a regulation to work (that's why there is a minimum reg). So possibly over time, with any type of regulation (max length,  minimum, or slot limit), the risk of "bunching" (most fish are of one or two size classes) exists (unless it's been determined, like Glendo, that there is enough harvest for the reg to work). Hope this helps.   


Thanks for your reply. Nice to be able to learn some of the science thats behind the regulations we have.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 24, 2011, 11:34 AM
Nice to have a Laramie guy!

Has there ever been an effort to add artificial structure in Granite, Crystal or Hattie?   Would it help the perch in these bodies of water?

Also which bodies of water do you cover?  All the way up to Glendo, Grayrocks, Hawk Springs, etc?

Thanks - Moose.

Moose,

Has far as I know there has have not been any recent attempts to add artificial structure to Granite, Crystal or Hattie.  Recently the Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities installed an aeration system at Crystal, which was not needed for any fisheries related issues, but certainly won't hurt the water quality year round.  The perch population in Granite and Crystal could benefit from some structure.  There are more small perch in these populations right now suggesting good natural reproduction, but possibly a lack of predation.  We have been stocking some brown trout in these reservoirs to take advantage of the perch and suckers, in hopes of improving the overall average length of the perch, but it will take a little time for the brown trout to grow.  Brown trout have been stocked annually at Granite Reservoir since 2004.  In terms of Hattie, there are some decent weed beds around the narrows that provide some nice rearing and spawning habitat for the perch.  The perch population, as natural reproducing perch population often do, cycled down after 2006 as indicated from our annual spring sampling.  Two strong year classes in 2003 and 2004 contributed to the strong yellow perch fishery in 2006 and 2007.  It is possible the strong 2004-year class created an overabundance of perch ≥ 8 and ≤ 9 inches, as was evident in our 2007, 2008, and 2009 samples.  The consecutive strong perch year-classes in 2003 and 2004 may have been competing for the same food resources, but over time the weaker year-classes that follow help reduce this competition.  A strong yellow perch year-class was expected in 2010.  This strong year class was evident in our 2010 sampling, but has not translated into good yellow perch fishing.  Not sure of the reasons behind this, but all the changes at Hattie (i.e. water, newly created habitat, increased productivity, etc) probably have had some influence on the bite.  In our 2010 spring sampling, we caught a number of perch around 14 inches and I hope these will be creeled by anglers in the future.   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 24, 2011, 11:44 AM
Nice to have a Laramie guy!

Has there ever been an effort to add artificial structure in Granite, Crystal or Hattie?   Would it help the perch in these bodies of water?

Also which bodies of water do you cover?  All the way up to Glendo, Grayrocks, Hawk Springs, etc?

Thanks - Moose.

Moose,

Forgot to cover the last half of your question - The Laramie Fisheries Management Area - The southern boundary is the Colorado border, the western boundary is the Cont. Divide in the Sierra Madre Mountains (everything draining east is in the Laramie Region, everything draining west in the Green River Region), we manage the upper North Platte River drainaged and our management stops where the North Platte River enters Seminoe (the Casper Region handles all the major North Platte Reservoirs = Seminoe, Pathfinder, Alcova, Glendo, Guernsey as well as the North Platte River from Seminoe to Nebraska), we manage waters in the Shirley Basin (Walker Jenkins, Shirley Basin Reservoir), we manage all the Laramie River drainage (includes Grayrocks, Wheatland #3 and #1, Rock Lake), we also manage Hawk Springs, Packers, Bump-Sullivan, Springer, we manage everything around Wheatland and Cheyenne out to the Nebraksa border, which is the eastern boundary. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Jan 24, 2011, 11:53 AM
 Thank you for your replies,  ANY SCIENCE IS A LICENCE TO GIVE YOUR BEST GUESS MOST THE TIME.. A QUAOTE FROM A DR. I KNOW.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: TTipsword on Jan 24, 2011, 12:32 PM
Moose,

Forgot to cover the last half of your question - The Laramie Fisheries Management Area - The southern boundary is the Colorado border, the western boundary is the Cont. Divide in the Sierra Madre Mountains (everything draining east is in the Laramie Region, everything draining west in the Green River Region), we manage the upper North Platte River drainaged and our management stops where the North Platte River enters Seminoe (the Casper Region handles all the major North Platte Reservoirs = Seminoe, Pathfinder, Alcova, Glendo, Guernsey as well as the North Platte River from Seminoe to Nebraska), we manage waters in the Shirley Basin (Walker Jenkins, Shirley Basin Reservoir), we manage all the Laramie River drainage (includes Grayrocks, Wheatland #3 and #1, Rock Lake), we also manage Hawk Springs, Packers, Bump-Sullivan, Springer, we manage everything around Wheatland and Cheyenne out to the Nebraksa border, which is the eastern boundary. 

Can you offer any information to packers? Everyone i talk to seems to have different opinions on type of fish, and quality of fish in this lake.  Maybe you might be able to offer some info?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: chriswy on Jan 24, 2011, 02:05 PM
My question is why are live bait fish only able to be used in certain waters. It seems that the majority are the only places where there are Walleye. Just curious to know what the reasoning is for area 4 which is pretty much Trout area that you cant use live minnows.

thanks,

chris
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 24, 2011, 05:40 PM
Thank you for inviting us to participate in the IceShanty site.  We hope that we will be able to make some meaningful contributions and help answer questions regarding the biology and management of some of Wyoming's fishery resources.  The Lander Region of the WGFD includes the Wind River drainage from just below Boysen Reservoir upstream to the headwaters, excluding waters within the Wind River Reservation.  All three biologists who make up the Lander Fisheries Management Crew plan to participate under the WGFDFishBioLander login.  In this way we hope to be able to respond to questions in a timely manner. Thanks!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 24, 2011, 05:47 PM
Thank you for inviting us to participate in the IceShanty site.  We hope that we will be able to make some meaningful contributions and help answer questions regarding the biology and management of some of Wyoming's fishery resources.  The Lander Region of the WGFD includes the Wind River drainage from just below Boysen Reservoir upstream to the headwaters, excluding waters within the Wind River Reservation.  All three biologists who make up the Lander Fisheries Management Crew plan to participate under the WGFDFishBioLander login.  In this way we hope to be able to respond to questions in a timely manner. Thanks!!

Thanks for joining the site guys. Good to have you onboard.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: LT on Jan 24, 2011, 05:51 PM
To all our newbie WY G&F guys, if you scroll to the bottom of the page, you will find our open water site, MyFishingForum, owned by the same company as this, joining is simple, click on it and join using the same screen name etc you use here. We welcome you and invite you to migrate with us when we go there in the spring. Again, thanks. Don
                                                  Ye Olde recently Retired IS Mod :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: cspencer on Jan 24, 2011, 07:00 PM
My question is, Are their living fish in twin buttes? whent and fished it today no luck herd they stocked it/
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jiga_guppy on Jan 24, 2011, 11:08 PM
Question to the Sheridan Fish Bio. Is there methane gas in the Acme pond? Or any other thing that would make the fish unsafe to eat?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 25, 2011, 10:43 AM
I have a question about Glendo,
Why does it seem like there is a smaller population of larger walleye in it? ( 24"- 32")

There is sooooo much food, cover, lack of competition, etc...
And yet we rarely here of any fish breaking the 3lb mark. Compared to other lakes in Wyoming with fewer walleye and less available food.

Thanks for your time guys. This is great having you on here!

Although I'm a fisheries biologist in Lander, I was the Glendo fisheries biologist for four years before transferring to my current position in Lander so I'll be able to answer this question.  The main reason for the lack of bigger walleyes in Glendo in comparison to other WY waters is the higher level of mortality caused by fishermen.  That is why we put the minimum length limit on the Glendo walleye fishery - to increase the size structure of the Glendo walleye population so Glendo anglers can catch bigger fish.  Glendo has a higher fishing mortality than any other walleye fishery in the state, and those smaller age-1 and age-2 (and some age-3, depending on what time of year you catch them) walleyes less than 15 inches got hammered by fishermen.  So, the minimum length limit should increase the size structure of the Glendo walleye population and eventually allow angler to catch larger walleyes.  But remember, this is a new regulation and it will take 5-6 years to see the full effect so please be patient.

That being said, I doubt we will ever see a lot of trophy walleyes (i.e. > 28 inches) coming out of Glendo compared to other WY reservoirs because there is a biological phenomenon going on in Glendo.  Walleyes in Glendo grow faster than walleyes in other reservoirs for a couple of reasons.  You hit the nail on the head with the forage – there is a ton in Glendo compared to other WY reservoirs.  But because Glendo is at a lower elevation than most other WY walleye fisheries, it has a longer growing season (probably April - Oct.) than higher elevation reservoirs like, for example, Seminoe.  The water temperatures at Seminoe warm up much later and cool down much earlier than Glendo, and there is likely only a 3-month growing season.  Now, it is well documented in fisheries science that fish that grow faster have shorter lives than fish that grow slower, and this is very apparent when comparing the Glendo walleye population to other WY populations.  The oldest walleye I aged (and I aged over 500 in Glendo easily) in Glendo was age-12 (and that was 1 fish), and I rarely aged walleyes older than age-8.  In Pathfinder and Seminoe I regularly aged fish older than age-10 and even aged some walleyes older than age-20.  So, even though walleyes initially grow faster in Glendo, walleyes in a lot of other reservoirs live longer and have the potential to eventually grow bigger, especially when they grow big enough to eat all of the large suckers and stocked rainbow trout that live in other reservoirs.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 25, 2011, 11:02 AM
Good question. This is pretty much refered to as a "maximum" size limit, whereas only one walleye over 24" and the rest under 24". These regulations are used when: it's necessary to protect the broodstock, the walleye population is a highly exploited population, there is a low density of mature fish, and there is low recruitment. This could, over time, increase to trophy potential. But keep in mind, the fishery must be highly exploited for any regulation to take affect. To my knowledge (other WGF'ers can help me out here) Glendo is the only walleye fishery with a high enough harvest for a regulation to work (that's why there is a minimum reg). So possibly over time, with any type of regulation (max length,  minimum, or slot limit), the risk of "bunching" (most fish are of one or two size classes) exists (unless it's been determined, like Glendo, that there is enough harvest for the reg to work). Hope this helps.   

This question was answered very well by WGFFishBio but I can add a bit to it.  In general, maximum size limits do not work very well in walleye fisheries.  Biologically, maximum length limits work best with fish that mature later in life and have low fecundities (meaning they do not produce many eggs).  It takes these types of fish (for example, sturgeon or lake trout) a long time to reach the age and size where they can spawn, and once they reach spawning size it may be beneficial to protect them and the few eggs they produce.  Walleyes become sexually mature relatively fast (maybe as soon as age-2 for males and age-4 for females in Glendo, but this definitely varies by lake), and have high fecundities (can have over 100,000 eggs).  So, it does not take many female walleyes to produce the eggs needed to maintain a walleye population.  And, even if there are a couple consecutive poor year-classes of walleyes, it won't be long before another year-class arrives that can spawn relatively quickly.  When working on Glendo (and now on Boysen) I hear a lot of comments from anglers that would like to see the big "spawner walleye" protected with a maximimum length limit.  Their heart is in the right place because they want to see their walleye fishery protected.  But, biologically, a maximum length limit on a walleye fishery rarely makes sense, and I can't think of any walleye fishery in WY where one would be appropriate.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 25, 2011, 11:58 AM
This question was answered very well by WGFFishBio but I can add a bit to it.  In general, maximum size limits do not work very well in walleye fisheries.  Biologically, maximum length limits work best with fish that mature later in life and have low fecundities (meaning they do not produce many eggs).  It takes these types of fish (for example, sturgeon or lake trout) a long time to reach the age and size where they can spawn, and once they reach spawning size it may be beneficial to protect them and the few eggs they produce.  Walleyes become sexually mature relatively fast (maybe as soon as age-2 for males and age-4 for females in Glendo, but this definitely varies by lake), and have high fecundities (can have over 100,000 eggs).  So, it does not take many female walleyes to produce the eggs needed to maintain a walleye population.  And, even if there are a couple consecutive poor year-classes of walleyes, it won't be long before another year-class arrives that can spawn relatively quickly.  When working on Glendo (and now on Boysen) I hear a lot of comments from anglers that would like to see the big "spawner walleye" protected with a maximimum length limit.  Their heart is in the right place because they want to see their walleye fishery protected.  But, biologically, a maximum length limit on a walleye fishery rarely makes sense, and I can't think of any walleye fishery in WY where one would be appropriate.


Thank you for the expansion of the answer. That leads me to another question: The limit on Rainbow trout at Boysen includes only one fish may be 20" or longer. I have heard that rainbows do not spawn successfully in Boysen. That being the case, spawning would not be an issue. What is the reason for the one fish over 20" limit ? I assume, maybe wrongly, that it is to increase the numbers of larger catchable fish  for anglers ? And if that is the case why could not the same thing be done for walleye ? Say one fish over 24"-26", to increase trophy potential ?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Jan 25, 2011, 12:51 PM
It's great to have the G&F on here to learn the reasons behind why things are done the way they are.
I was one who thought that releasing the bigger walleyes was better for the fishery, but it appears that it is not neccessary from a spawning standpoint. But that was only part of the reason. If the larger fish are mostly released(not all) than it stands to reason that the trophy potential for a body of water would be increased.

+1
The trophy potential will increase for a fishery. It absolutely kills me when walleye fishermen complain to me about "how the fishing used to be" "we would always catch eyes over 10 lbs. every year". My next question to them is-Do you release any fish you catch?  99% of the time their response is "no, they are so tasty."  If you catch and keep every 26+ inch walleye you ever land on Glendo how are those fish ever going to reach 30 inches? I hear ya on the shorter life span thing, but they also grow faster. The big eyes are in there, most of which I've seen pics of on the walls of the local bait shop and stores around Glendo. Every photo I've seen has been of a dead fish. Are we seeing a pattern here?

Oh, my question......Sorry, got a little off the topic.

Of the creel surveys and netting you've done on glendo what % of fish would you estimate exceed 25 inches?  How many eyes have you sampled that are estimated over 30 inches? 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: augergas on Jan 25, 2011, 02:39 PM
As far as Glendo goes, has the 15" minimum been in effect long enough to tell if there is any effect on the walleye? Size or population? Was there ever any consideration of a slot style limit (1 fish over 22" or something like that?). As a biologist, does it all come down to mortality rates or is there any emphasis on size or trophy quality?
Lastly, any thoughts of lowering the daily walleye limit on Glendo? It's very interesting to hear the reasoning behind the management decisions on these lakes.

I have kept a spot in Glendo the last couple years and was surveyed several times prior to the 15" minimum being enacted. It's encouraging that angler opinion carried weight in the decision. I assume there wasn't any hue and cry for more of a trophy fishery during this research.

The Nebraska waters I fish have a 15" minimum, 1 fish over 22" and 4 fish limit on eyes. I do think it does some good in a little lake like Minatare that gets a great deal of fishing pressure, but it is a bit sickening to see all of the dead fish in the hot summer months when many folks are dead sticking worms. I recall when the 15" minimum was first considered in NE, it was for Minatare. There was a great deal of pressure brought on by the local anglers and the Nebraska G&P was reluctant to enact a restriction on one lake. Now it is statewide. I think that in the grand scheme, it has probably helped the lake. I wonder if there is some way of judging catch and release mortality though? Minatare is surrounded by shore fishermen all summer and that combined with worm fishermen anchored in boats makes for huge numbers of gut hooked fish.



Thanks again.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: BottomDweller on Jan 25, 2011, 03:27 PM

great thread.  thanks, WyoG&F, for your time.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 25, 2011, 03:52 PM
Question to the Sheridan Fish Bio. Is there methane gas in the Acme pond? Or any other thing that would make the fish unsafe to eat?
The Acme or Kleenburn Ponds are old coal pits, but to our knowledge there is nothing wrong with eating the fish from there. Hope this answers your question.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wally pounder on Jan 25, 2011, 06:26 PM
why is it the game and fish is so worried about the walleye in buffalobill res? i fish it quite often and it has ben  several years since i have caught a native cut, i catch a lot of cut bows,rainbows,browns and lakers ,all non native fish. so are the walleye going to hurt the native cut population more than all of the other non native fish?  are there any  pure native cuts left in buffalo bill.    one more question did the sauger run up the shoshone to the north and south fork before the damms were built .
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 26, 2011, 03:32 PM
Can you offer any information to packers? Everyone i talk to seems to have different opinions on type of fish, and quality of fish in this lake.  Maybe you might be able to offer some info?

TTips,

This lake has a diverse fishery.  Game fish present are black crappie, channel catfish, green sunfish, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, walleye, and yellow perch.  There are a number of other native non-game fish present in this lake as well, such as the suckermouth minnow, which is an native nongame fish sensitive species.  The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew stocks Packers Lake annually, as natural reproduction of this species is somewhat variable.  The WGFD stocks around 6,000 walleye fingerling annually, 5,000 rainbow trout (8-10 inches) annually every fall, 3,000 fingerling black crappie biannually, and 9,000 largemouth bass biannually.  We stock channel catfish when available from out-of-state sources, the last catfish stocking was in 2008.  The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew samples Packers Lake about every 3 years.  In 2006 walleye captured during sampling ranged in length from 9 to 26 inches, black crappie we caught up to 11 inches, and yellow perch up to 9 inches.  In 2008 walleye captured ranged in length from 5 to 22 inches and largemouth bass captured ranged in length from 7 to 16 inches.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 26, 2011, 03:47 PM
My question is, Are their living fish in twin buttes? whent and fished it today no luck herd they stocked it/

cspencer,

Water can enter Twin Buttes Reservoir via a canal originating from Lake Hattie, but prior to 2010 this had not occurred since 1999.  Due to the lack of fresh water the reservoir quickly become a highly saline environment.  Since 2004 catch rates of rainbow trout were above 1.00 fish/hour (this is basically an index of their abundance, something to compare over time), but declined in 2007 and 2008.  In addition, the mean length of rainbow trout decreased since 2006.  One possible cause for this decrease in growth and survivability is the increasing salinity of the reservoir.  Due to the concern of possible rising salinity levels a water sample was taken on June 17, 2008.  Many parameters were tested for, but some stand out; conductivity was 20,400 mS/cm and total dissolved solids (TDS) measured 23,856 ppm.  Conductivity is the ability of water to conduct an electrical current, with dissolved ions being the conductors.  Salinity is a measure of the amount of salts (i.e. sodium chloride, sodium, carbonate, and sulfate) in the water.  Total dissolved solids are the measurement of the total ions in a solution, most accurately measured in a lab.  In freshwater, TDS is often used to indicate the same thing as salinity.  Twin Buttes Reservoir was developed in 1972 and prior to the construction of permanent inlet and outlet structures and the addition of fresh water, high salinities (up to 37,000 ppm TDS) precluded a fishery.  The purchase of water rights, as well as runoff water from Mortenson Draw, added fresh water to the reservoir and reduced the salinities to about 10-12,000 ppm TDS.  The ocean typically has a salinity of 33,000-37,000 ppm.  The Speas Rearing Station has stocked Twin Buttes Reservoir since 2002 and the water at the hatchery has a conductance of 616 mS/cm.  Using the standard equation for converting conductivity to TDS (mS/cm x 0.5), the TDS of Speas Rearing Station water would be 308 ppm.  Survival of rainbow trout stocked into Twin Buttes Reservoir was most likely affected by osmotic shock.  Due to the low survival of stocked rainbow trout, stocking was deleted for 2009 and 2010.  Stocking was deleted for 2010 prior to the influx of water into Twin Buttes from Lake Hattie.  Recent water quality test have indicated salinity levels are back to safe level for stocking.  Just around 2,500 rainbow trout brood culls (14-16 inches) were stocked through the ice the last week of December 2010 at Twin Buttes and regular stocking will resume in the spring of 2011.           

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 26, 2011, 04:05 PM
Interesting information - thanks for sharing.

Can you (or anyone else) give a general overview of your thoughts on the catfish population in Glendo?  They seem to be some of the healthiest cats I've seen anywhere for their size.  Very thick, broad and fat usually.  Small heads and giant bodies  (These huge shad die offs every winter probably can attribute to this).  Can the same general phenomenon you described above be applied to catfish?  Bigger specimens come from Boysen because they are growing slower?   Also on what level do the catfish successfully spawn in Glendo?

What is the largest cat you've sampled out of Glendo?
Also:  I noticed the state record drum was caught at Glendo - but I've never heard of anyone catching them there recently.  Is there still a population of drum in Glendo?
Thanks - Moose.


I'll see if someone on the Casper crew (who manages Glendo) can better answer this question.  I haven't worked on Glendo for almost 2 years now, but here are my general thoughts.  There is a lot of forage for them, so they are healthy fish.  However, population numbers are way down, mostly because there have been shortages in hatchery catfish (we usually get our catfish from Oklahoma or Arkansas) and there have been quite a few years recently where we have not been able to stock.  Most of the current Glendo population is made of larger, older individuals.  There is an ongoing study looking into how successful catfish are at naturally reporoducing in Glendo, but preliminary data indicate they are not very successful. 

I can't really answer the slower growing/longer living question of catfish in Glendo vs. Boysen becasue we do not have much for aging data on Boysen catfish.  In fact, we haven't stocked catfish into Boysen since 2005 because of the possibility that the stocked catfish may be preying on juvenile sauger (another ongoing study).  So Glendo is similar to Boysen in that there hasn't been many catfish stocked recently, and the population is made up mostly of larger, older individuals.  We think that catfish in the Wind River/Boysen area probably are a bit more successful at reporduction that in the North Platte/Glendo system.

Drum do not currently exist in Glendo.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 26, 2011, 04:11 PM

Thank you for the expansion of the answer. That leads me to another question: The limit on Rainbow trout at Boysen includes only one fish may be 20" or longer. I have heard that rainbows do not spawn successfully in Boysen. That being the case, spawning would not be an issue. What is the reason for the one fish over 20" limit ? I assume, maybe wrongly, that it is to increase the numbers of larger catchable fish  for anglers ? And if that is the case why could not the same thing be done for walleye ? Say one fish over 24"-26", to increase trophy potential ?

You are right that rainbow trout do not successfully reproduce in Boysen.  We will likely eliminate the "1 trout over 20 inches" regulation for Boysen.  If approved, it will go into effect in 2012.  You are right that protecting spawning rainbow trout is not an issue in Boysen.  We would like to eliminate this regulation so that anglers can harvest more rainbow trout that we stock for them to catch.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Jan 26, 2011, 04:49 PM
Thanks for the information, as always.

Would the G/F actively search for a new trading partner if you guys cannot get catfish in the next few years?  Would be sad to see the cat populations at Glendo take a dive.

I think they are a great sport fish and I've read the G/F has believed they are under utilized as a resource.  Just wanted to put in my strong opinion that it would be really sad to see the cats take a hit or disappear.  I know most people don't fish for them but they are a great fish.  They seem to do very well in there too so it would be a shame like I said.

---




I'll ask one more and then take it easy on the questions for awhile.   What information can be shared on the population of remaining Flathead Catfish in the state?  They were stocked into the Platte and Nebraska gave the Wyoming G/F a certain number of them to try out?  Something like that?   How rare are they - do you guys believe there are still some in the system?

Thanks again - Moose.
May I please add to this question? 

With Nebraska being so close to Glendo reservoir, if there was enough public interest from all of us WY residents would the WYGF consider ever stocking Flathead catfish in addition to channel cats? (In Glendo that is)

Since the donated  flathead cats were "experimentally stocked" in the North Platte has the WYGF had any $$$ put away for the purchase of more flathead catfish?

If there was enough public interest would the WYGF ever consider stocking Flathead catfish anywhere in the state?

In your professional opinion, what would be the most ideal lake or river system to stock Flathead catfish in WY? (given WY had the funding and public interest)

Has the WYGF ever considered stocking blue cats in reservoirs?

That was a bunch of questions, but I really like to catfish. Thank you for your input.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 26, 2011, 04:56 PM
As far as Glendo goes, has the 15" minimum been in effect long enough to tell if there is any effect on the walleye? Size or population? Was there ever any consideration of a slot style limit (1 fish over 22" or something like that?). As a biologist, does it all come down to mortality rates or is there any emphasis on size or trophy quality?
Lastly, any thoughts of lowering the daily walleye limit on Glendo? It's very interesting to hear the reasoning behind the management decisions on these lakes.

I have kept a spot in Glendo the last couple years and was surveyed several times prior to the 15" minimum being enacted. It's encouraging that angler opinion carried weight in the decision. I assume there wasn't any hue and cry for more of a trophy fishery during this research.

The Nebraska waters I fish have a 15" minimum, 1 fish over 22" and 4 fish limit on eyes. I do think it does some good in a little lake like Minatare that gets a great deal of fishing pressure, but it is a bit sickening to see all of the dead fish in the hot summer months when many folks are dead sticking worms. I recall when the 15" minimum was first considered in NE, it was for Minatare. There was a great deal of pressure brought on by the local anglers and the Nebraska G&P was reluctant to enact a restriction on one lake. Now it is statewide. I think that in the grand scheme, it has probably helped the lake. I wonder if there is some way of judging catch and release mortality though? Minatare is surrounded by shore fishermen all summer and that combined with worm fishermen anchored in boats makes for huge numbers of gut hooked fish.



Thanks again.

The 15" minimum has not been in effect long enough to determine any effect on the walleye population at Glendo.  The regulation just went into effect in 2010.  It will take at least 6 years or so (maybe even longer) to get a good idea on how it is working.  Let me explain.  Anglers won't see any effect until at least 3 years into the regulation, because it takes 3 years for walleye in Glendo to reach 15 inches.  But the reason I say at least 6 years is because you can't evaluate a new regulation based on one year-class of fish.  If we have at least 4  year-classes of fish under the new regulation in Glendo we should have a pretty good idea how it is working.  Walleye spawning success is very erratic and there are lots of environmental variables that infulence a year-class strength (for example, weather, being eaten by other fish, including cannibalism) that are out of a biologist's control.  By looking at the regulation's effects over many years on multiple year classes, we won't be evaluating the regulation over a short time frame where we could possibly have successive strong or weak year classes that may influence our data.

A "1 over 22 inches" is a maximum length limit.  Please see my earlier post on this subject.  But I'll give you some more info.  Yes, it was considered and shot down quickly by our agency because we had good data showing that it would have no effect. We looked at over 3 years of creel data from Glendo from 2006 - 2008(over 1,300 angler interviews).  Only 7 anglers(0.5%) harvested more than one 20-inch walleye, and 0 harvested more than one 22-inch walleye.  All this maximum length limit would do would unnecessarily restrict a few anglers who want to take few biger fish home.  There would be absolutely no biological effecton the Glendo wallye population.

We also briefly considered lowering the daily limit, but shot that down pretty quickly too.  Lowering creel limits rarely has any effect on any fishery because most anglers don't consitently catch a daily limit of fish.  But, we again looked at creel data and data from a walleye tag-reward study to determine the effects of reducing the creel limit.  The tag-reward study showed that about 35% of the Glendo walleye population is harvested by anglers every year.  By looking at creel survey data we can pretty accurately estimate total harvest and the number of anglers that actually catch a daily limit.  We estimated that this total mortality would drop to 33% with a five fish limit, 30% with a 4-fish, and 25% with a 3-fish limit.  So, we would only be reducing total annual mortality by 10% by cutting the daily limit in half.  Plus, I don't know many Glendo anglers that would be happy with a 3-walleye limit on Glendo.  The 15" minimum that we implemented on Glendo is the best regulation for improving the size of Glendo walleyes because it will protect the younger, smaller fish from harvest and allow them to grow bigger.  The opinion survey that you mention showed that the public overwhelmingly supported the 15" minimum option.

You are correct that there will be some gut-hooked fish that have to be released because of the 15" minimum regulation.  That is just a fact of life when you have a length limit.  But, when looking at the big picture, the postives of the new Glendo regulation should outweigh the negatives and the walleye fishery will beneft.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYIfish on Jan 26, 2011, 05:13 PM
Area 4
Any chance of changing the sorry state of the Big Sandy Res.?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: TTipsword on Jan 26, 2011, 05:57 PM
TTips,

This lake has a diverse fishery.  Game fish present are black crappie, channel catfish, green sunfish, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, walleye, and yellow perch.  There are a number of other native non-game fish present in this lake as well, such as the suckermouth minnow, which is an native nongame fish sensitive species.  The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew stocks Packers Lake annually, as natural reproduction of this species is somewhat variable.  The WGFD stocks around 6,000 walleye fingerling annually, 5,000 rainbow trout (8-10 inches) annually every fall, 3,000 fingerling black crappie biannually, and 9,000 largemouth bass biannually.  We stock channel catfish when available from out-of-state sources, the last catfish stocking was in 2008.  The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew samples Packers Lake about every 3 years.  In 2006 walleye captured during sampling ranged in length from 9 to 26 inches, black crappie we caught up to 11 inches, and yellow perch up to 9 inches.  In 2008 walleye captured ranged in length from 5 to 22 inches and largemouth bass captured ranged in length from 7 to 16 inches.

Thank you very much.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 26, 2011, 06:54 PM
You are right that rainbow trout do not successfully reproduce in Boysen.  We will likely eliminate the "1 trout over 20 inches" regulation for Boysen.  If approved, it will go into effect in 2012.  You are right that protecting spawning rainbow trout is not an issue in Boysen.  We would like to eliminate this regulation so that anglers can harvest more rainbow trout that we stock for them to catch.



Thank you for your reply.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYIfish on Jan 27, 2011, 07:12 PM
Area 4
Any chance of changing the sorry state of the Big Sandy Res.?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jiga_guppy on Jan 27, 2011, 10:33 PM
Question for the Sheridan fish Bio. Which pond are the Crappie in out of the 5 of the Maverackis ponds if any?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: cbtrtbum on Jan 27, 2011, 10:56 PM
This is a great thread. Thanks so much to the guys with the great questions, and the G&F guys for taking the time to participate on our great site. Awesome!!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SJ1991 on Jan 28, 2011, 12:01 AM
I got a ? ... How long does it take for a big mack (30+ lbs) to get that big?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: augergas on Jan 28, 2011, 09:48 AM
I have learned a great deal of info in this and the Keyhole thread. I would like to thank the WGF biologist for enightening us on these management decisions.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Jan 28, 2011, 11:13 AM
I know as biologists you guys spend quite a lot of time on the water collecting data. Netting, shocking,water sampling, creel surveys, and more I am sure I missed.

My question concerns creel surveys.  I spend quite a bit of time fishing year round, and can only remember being surveyed once in the last 3 years. I realize that the people doing creel work can not be all places at all times.

I wondered what % of the data collected is supplied by creel surveys , or what weight is given to creel survey data ?
Has there ever been any thought given to anglers being given a survey form(similar to a big game survey) at the time they purchase their license to kind of keep a log of fishing activity, or an online survey ?
Would this kind of information be usefull ?
Or would it be unreliable ? cost prohibitive ? lacking in enough participation to make it usefull ?

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyohikeit on Jan 28, 2011, 06:20 PM
Randy Merrit's 30 pound Laker was 40 years old he was told by the Game and fish
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: augergas on Jan 31, 2011, 03:27 PM
Randy Merrit's 30 pound Laker was 40 years old he was told by the Game and fish

seriously? I had no idea that fish could live that long.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYIfish on Jan 31, 2011, 04:59 PM

Any news on the big sandy res. getting any fish?????????????????????
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: LT on Feb 01, 2011, 11:22 AM
Per Lander Warden Hovinga this am, "Yes, you may continue fishing provided you catch-and-release on any fish you catch thereafter, however, an ethics question arises, if you gill a fish, you are faced with the dilemma of going over the limit or releasing a fish you know will die." Best method might be practicing catch and release on your last fish in a creel limit. There, maybe we can get back to actual G&F questions again  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 02, 2011, 09:01 AM
Randy Merrit's 30 pound Laker was 40 years old he was told by the Game and fish

As with most fish species, growth rates can be highly variable.  Factors such as availability of food, water temperatures, length of growing season, and genetics all play a factor.  Lake trout are one of the longer lived species.  We aged a 32.2 inch lake trout from a high mountain lake this past summer. It was 51 years old.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 02, 2011, 09:41 AM
I know as biologists you guys spend quite a lot of time on the water collecting data. Netting, shocking,water sampling, creel surveys, and more I am sure I missed.

My question concerns creel surveys.  I spend quite a bit of time fishing year round, and can only remember being surveyed once in the last 3 years. I realize that the people doing creel work can not be all places at all times.

I wondered what % of the data collected is supplied by creel surveys , or what weight is given to creel survey data ?
Has there ever been any thought given to anglers being given a survey form(similar to a big game survey) at the time they purchase their license to kind of keep a log of fishing activity, or an online survey ?
Would this kind of information be usefull ?
Or would it be unreliable ? cost prohibitive ? lacking in enough participation to make it usefull



The science of surveying anglers and their catch is one of the major tools utilized by fisheries managers throughout North America.  The type, complexity, and extent of surveys vary widely.  Intensive creel surveys can provide estimates of total harvest and total pressure. We call these "programmed creel surveys" and they follow accepted statistical sampling theory in an attempt to achieve estimators of interest that are unbiased and precise.  These require a lot of manpower, and for large waters, usually entail the use of aircraft to make instantaneous counts of numbers of anglers.  Subsequently, they are very expensive and seldom used.  The last programmed creel survey at Boysen was done in 1992, and we have no plans to do another anytime soon.  Currently we utilize spot creel surveys at Boysen Reservoir and a few other waters within the Lander Region.  For Boysen, this involves about 4 survey days/month from April through July.  While it does not provide harvest estimates or estimates of number of anglers, it does allow us to estimate catch rates for the various sport fish in the reservoir.  These catch rates are but one way we can gage how our various populatiions are doing.  Remember though, catch rates are often not a direct indicator of population size.  Walleye is an example.  Angler catch rates seem to be more associated with how hungry the walleye are (how much forage is available) rather than how many walleye are in the reservoir. 
The other part of your question dealt with having anglers collect their own data.  This is an option and it has been utilized in the past.  The Department produced some Angler Diary booklets - we still have some at the Lander office, but I'm not sure what the availability is elsewhere.  The problem with this type of data collection deals with the bias that is involved.  The people that choose to participate in such a program are not a random subsample of the angling public.  They are usually those with a higher interest, those who fish more often than the average angler, and those that have a higher catch rate.  Also, there is a tendancy (usually not intentional) for anglers not to make an entry in their log/diary for days that they were unsuccessful.
Hope I answered your questions.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Feb 02, 2011, 09:49 AM
The science of surveying anglers and their catch is one of the major tools utilized by fisheries managers throughout North America.  The type, complexity, and extent of surveys vary widely.  Intensive creel surveys can provide estimates of total harvest and total pressure. We call these "programmed creel surveys" and they follow accepted statistical sampling theory in an attempt to achieve estimators of interest that are unbiased and precise.  These require a lot of manpower, and for large waters, usually entail the use of aircraft to make instantaneous counts of numbers of anglers.  Subsequently, they are very expensive and seldom used.  The last programmed creel survey at Boysen was done in 1992, and we have no plans to do another anytime soon.  Currently we utilize spot creel surveys at Boysen Reservoir and a few other waters within the Lander Region.  For Boysen, this involves about 4 survey days/month from April through July.  While it does not provide harvest estimates or estimates of number of anglers, it does allow us to estimate catch rates for the various sport fish in the reservoir.  These catch rates are but one way we can gage how our various populatiions are doing.  Remember though, catch rates are often not a direct indicator of population size.  Walleye is an example.  Angler catch rates seem to be more associated with how hungry the walleye are (how much forage is available) rather than how many walleye are in the reservoir. 
The other part of your question dealt with having anglers collect their own data.  This is an option and it has been utilized in the past.  The Department produced some Angler Diary booklets - we still have some at the Lander office, but I'm not sure what the availability is elsewhere.  The problem with this type of data collection deals with the bias that is involved.  The people that choose to participate in such a program are not a random subsample of the angling public.  They are usually those with a higher interest, those who fish more often than the average angler, and those that have a higher catch rate.  Also, there is a tendancy (usually not intentional) for anglers not to make an entry in their log/diary for days that they were unsuccessful.
Hope I answered your questions.


Thank you for your answer. That answered my questions.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: GilletteRandy on Feb 02, 2011, 10:44 AM
Game and Fish folk, in your opinion, will the below 0 temps we've experienced recently effect the fishing any? Would you think the fish may travel to deeper portions of the lake, or maybe not be as active?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 03, 2011, 09:01 AM
Game and Fish folk, in your opinion, will the below 0 temps we've experienced recently effect the fishing any? Would you think the fish may travel to deeper portions of the lake, or maybe not be as active?

Generally, I don't believe you should expect the cold temperatures to effect the fishing, at least from the fish's perspective.  The anglers on the other hand may be faced with thicker ice and the need to bring an extra thermos of coffee - or whatever else you might utilize to keep warm.  The water temperatures will not be altered by the cold air temperatures.  Water is the most dense or heaviest at 4 degrees C or 39 degrees F.  Therefore the water at the bottom of the lake is at 4 and it drops to 0 degrees just below the ice.  Very cold air temperatures will result in heat loss from the ice on the surface which causes additional freezing at the ice/water interface.  So, generally speaking, the only change from the sub-zero weather will be just below the surface of the ice.  An exception might be where a river flows into a lake or reservoir.  Cold air temperatures can effect the temperature of the river water and you might therefore expect a change in how the water reacts with the receiving lake water.  This would be different for each lake and is very difficult to predict how it might change fish behavior.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYeyes on Feb 03, 2011, 09:23 AM
That was pretty interesting about the 51 year old lake trout.

Do you have any records that show ages of walleye in Boysen for fish 30" and up ? And ages of oldest fish sampled there, any species ? And what would they be ?  Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Feb 03, 2011, 04:19 PM
On a side note, I see the warden in this area again I will ask him as well to join.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: LT on Feb 03, 2011, 04:21 PM
That'sll be a total of three Wardens, cool  ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 7lazy77 on Feb 04, 2011, 09:56 AM
I plan on an out of state fishing trip where I will purchase minnows & suckers.  If I have any left over, can I just freeze them & use in Wyoming as dead bait??  (I am already aware that I can't bring live bait into WY from another state).  Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MountainMan on Feb 04, 2011, 10:58 AM
FYI to all. We will be "cleaning up" the thread in an effort to maintain it's original "Q&A" nature. The original intent of the thread was to make it easier for our G&F members to locate our questions, as well as give a centralized location where we could find answers to those questions. Please respect the answers given, and please don't hesitate to start a new, separate thread for any discussion you would like to start.

Thanks! ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: sportsman234 on Feb 04, 2011, 03:20 PM
To the Laramie crew, what is wrong with Lake Hattie? No one is catching much of anything out there and the contest in January sort of proved that. It would appear stocking needs to be a priority there as catch rates are dismal to the extreme. Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: POk3s on Feb 04, 2011, 03:58 PM
Maybe someone will be able to answer this. I don't know if we have anyone from over here in the Green River/Rock Springs area but here it goes.

Is there any way G&F knows at least an idea of when the ling population will stablize? Will it take until virtually all of the small fish/crayfish are out of the Gorge before the ling population finally starts to decline?? Just looking for any kind of answers the G&F has instead of just the general public guessing.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Feb 04, 2011, 05:08 PM
Fish population fluctuations

The fish populations seem to cycle a lot in the Wyoming waters I fish..  An example of my personal experience was during the low water years we caught walleyes and trout as fast as we could get crank baits in the water.  Then we had one good water year and for the next few years we had great perch fishing and we also started catching bull heads every trip.  Then last year the perch and trout numbers dropped off and I have not caught a bull head in two years. We have caught walleyes every year we just have to adjust our methods.   So  does the G&F have any idea why the perch and trout fishing has declined in Boysen so much? Also why did we have the big jump in bullhead numbers and then have them just seem like they vanished?  
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: outdoorschris on Feb 07, 2011, 12:30 AM
I know the limits for most fish but is the per species or in general?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Feb 07, 2011, 12:57 PM
Just a quick Question for the biologists in Lander.  In lake Camewait I know why the length limit of the bass has been implemented and trying to reduce the number of perch and to try and get larger perch in the lake, but i was wondering if it would be possible to maybe have blue gill or crappie introduced into the lake for another fish to catch in the lake. Since boysen all ready has these species there is no possible way to introduce another fish into this system.  I think that it would be great to have a good panfish lake to take the kids to and to have another option to catch blue gills since sand mesa #1 and #2 where drained and that we lost a great panfish spot to go and fish.  So how can we go about trying to see if the Game and Fish would introduce another fish to a lake.  Plus it would give the bass another food source.  Thanks again for joining the site and helping answer the questions that we all have.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: rodrunner on Feb 07, 2011, 10:47 PM
Fish population fluctuations

The fish populations seem to cycle a lot in the Wyoming waters I fish..  An example of my personal experience was during the low water years we caught walleyes and trout as fast as we could get crank baits in the water.  Then we had one good water year and for the next few years we had great perch fishing and we also started catching bull heads every trip.  Then last year the perch and trout numbers dropped off and I have not caught a bull head in two years. We have caught walleyes every year we just have to adjust our methods.   So  does the G&F have any idea why the perch and trout fishing has declined in Boysen so much? Also why did we have the big jump in bullhead numbers and then have them just seem like they vanished?  

I've expierenced the same results in different waters. Very good question.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wforbes on Feb 09, 2011, 09:47 AM
Is yesness pond in casper a youth only lake or is it open to everyone? We have been wondering about this on another thread and would like to know a true answer for sure.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyomingchad on Feb 09, 2011, 04:49 PM
Hawk Springs question:

I remember Hawk Springs being a very good walleye fishery.  With many years of low water hopefully behind us, what are your thoughts on the walleye fishery rebounding?  Is there much structure in this lake that the fish can relate to?  Also, do these fish naturaly reproduce or are they all stocked?

Thanks for your time and help
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Feb 09, 2011, 05:05 PM
wondering if a kid born in Wyoming has to wait ten years to get life time licenses? thank you  :)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Feb 09, 2011, 05:42 PM
wondering if a kid born in Wyoming has to wait ten years to get life time licenses? thank you  :)
:roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Feb 09, 2011, 07:46 PM
:roflmao: :roflmao: :roflmao:
I know, I know.....but c'mon, its uncle sam :'( :'(
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishaholictaz on Feb 10, 2011, 08:36 AM
If the kid was born in WY by the time he/she would need a fishing lic. they would have been here 14 years :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: archetype_wyo on Feb 10, 2011, 08:42 AM
If the kid was born in WY by the time he/she would need a fishing lic. they would have been here 14 years :tipup:


My guess is he wants to buy his son/nephew or other relative or maybe a good family friend's son a lifetime license as a gift beings the money is available. I shouldn't see why you couldn't, unless there's some rule or regulations. I mean it would just be a little redundant until he was 15yrs of age(first year for purchasing a license).
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 10, 2011, 03:51 PM
wondering if a kid born in Wyoming has to wait ten years to get life time licenses? thank you  :)
Yes, anybody, child or adult, has to reside in the State of Wyoming for 10 consecutive years before buying a lifetime license. So the soonest that you could purchase a license for your child is at age 10 (if born in WY). Although technically a child doesn't need a license until the age of 14 (Youth license), it may be wise to purchase the lifetime license when first allowed as license fees may increase between the child's 14th and 18th birthdays.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 10, 2011, 04:00 PM
Is yesness pond in casper a youth only lake or is it open to everyone? We have been wondering about this on another thread and would like to know a true answer for sure.
There is no restriction on who can fish in Yesness Pond. It is open to everyone, although it tends to be used more as a children's fishing area. To my knowledge there is only one place in WY with an age restriction and that is Huck Finn Pond in Laramie. If you are wondering about other restrictions on waterbodies, take a look at the regulations. All exceptions to the "Statewide" regulations are explained within each area. If that waterbody in question is not listed in the exceptions, it follows the Statewide regulations which are detailed in pages 3-11 of the regulation booklet.

Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 10, 2011, 04:11 PM
I plan on an out of state fishing trip where I will purchase minnows & suckers.  If I have any left over, can I just freeze them & use in Wyoming as dead bait??  (I am already aware that I can't bring live bait into WY from another state).  Thanks
Yes, you are allowed to use them as dead bait, they must be dead prior to transport. If you have any questions on where you can use bait, please refer to the fishing regulations.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 10, 2011, 04:24 PM
I know the limits for most fish but is the per species or in general?
Hope I understand your question. The creel limits for waters that follow the Statewide regulations are on page 3 of the regulation booklet. The tricky thing, and sometimes overlooked by anglers, is the exceptions page for each area. Creel limits can be different for different waters, so you have to be careful. The rule of thumb that I tell anglers is; once you know the water that you are going to be fishing, look up that water in the exceptions page, if it is listed as an exception then follow those regulations. If that water is not listed in the exceptions page, then follow the Statewide regulations on page 3.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: er-e-is on Feb 10, 2011, 04:45 PM
There is no restriction on who can fish in Yesness Pond. It is open to everyone, although it tends to be used more as a children's fishing area. To my knowledge there is only one place in WY with an age restriction and that is Huck Finn Pond in Laramie. If you are wondering about other restrictions on waterbodies, take a look at the regulations. All exceptions to the "Statewide" regulations are explained within each area. If that waterbody in question is not listed in the exceptions, it follows the Statewide regulations which are detailed in pages 3-11 of the regulation booklet.

Hope this helps.

Pinedale Childrens Pond in Sublette Co. Closed to anyone over 14yrs. of age and older.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Soulfly on Feb 10, 2011, 05:33 PM
What kind of trout do you guy's stock? Trying to find goldens?  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 10, 2011, 05:49 PM
Just a quick Question for the biologists in Lander.  In lake Camewait I know why the length limit of the bass has been implemented and trying to reduce the number of perch and to try and get larger perch in the lake, but i was wondering if it would be possible to maybe have blue gill or crappie introduced into the lake for another fish to catch in the lake. Since boysen all ready has these species there is no possible way to introduce another fish into this system.  I think that it would be great to have a good panfish lake to take the kids to and to have another option to catch blue gills since sand mesa #1 and #2 where drained and that we lost a great panfish spot to go and fish.  So how can we go about trying to see if the Game and Fish would introduce another fish to a lake.  Plus it would give the bass another food source.  Thanks again for joining the site and helping answer the questions that we all have.

The Lander Fisheries Management Crew has a request for bluegill to be stocked in Lake Cameahwait in 2012 and 2013.  Since we don’t raise bluegill in Wyoming, our culture section needs time to coordinate with other states for the added production to meet our request.  In preparation, we introduced emerald shiners in 2010.  They will have a few years to establish before adding bluegill.  Currently there isn’t enough forage to support the addition of another predator.  The stunted yellow perch are evidence that forage production must be increased before the addition of another predator.  The emerald shiners have done well in Boysen Reservoir and should provide another forage fish for largemouth bass and bluegill in Lake Cameahwait.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: outdoorschris on Feb 10, 2011, 07:42 PM
Hope I understand your question. The creel limits for waters that follow the Statewide regulations are on page 3 of the regulation booklet. The tricky thing, and sometimes overlooked by anglers, is the exceptions page for each area. Creel limits can be different for different waters, so you have to be careful. The rule of thumb that I tell anglers is; once you know the water that you are going to be fishing, look up that water in the exceptions page, if it is listed as an exception then follow those regulations. If that water is not listed in the exceptions page, then follow the Statewide regulations on page 3.

Hope this helps

I meant like if Im at Alcova can I keep 6 walleyes and 6 trout or is it 6 combined.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 11, 2011, 09:53 AM
I meant like if Im at Alcova can I keep 6 walleyes and 6 trout or is it 6 combined.
In that situation, since they are two seperate species, you could keep 6 of each. But there are situations where there is a combination limit. An example is the trout and panfish. You could not keep 6 rainbows, 6 browns, and 6 cutthroat, the limit is 6 trout in combination (despite the species). An exception to this is the bonus brook trout limit. You could keep 6 trout of various species (brown, rainbow etc.) plus an additional 16 brook trout.

Panfish are similar. Perch, bluegill, crappie are all lumped into the combination. So you couldn't keep 50 of each, but you could keep a total of 50 in combination.

All of this can be found on page three of the fishing regulations. Also, keep in mind, there may be exceptions, depending on the water and those can be found within the exception pages for each area.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Feb 11, 2011, 10:33 AM
How about introducing more smallmouth bass into Glendo? As I have heard there are some, but far and few in between.
I don't think I have  been to a more appropriate reservoir in this part of the country that would suit them. And why not better utilize that over abundance of food? The shad, crayfish, and carp minnows are in a population to support allot more predatory fish that what Glendo has now. With no real threat of swimming up stream and affecting the trout fishing 60mi up the Platte. With adding a fish more willing to bite on more occasion's it would give anglers something else to catch besides walleye. I understand the G&F stocked some in years past, but it does not seem they found each other, and were able to establish a population.

And has the G&F ever considered hybrid bass (wipers)?

Again ,
THANK YOU GUYS SOO MUCH! THIS IS BECOMING THE BEST PART OF THIS SITE! ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: outdoorschris on Feb 11, 2011, 01:30 PM
In that situation, since they are two seperate species, you could keep 6 of each. But there are situations where there is a combination limit. An example is the trout and panfish. You could not keep 6 rainbows, 6 browns, and 6 cutthroat, the limit is 6 trout in combination (despite the species). An exception to this is the bonus brook trout limit. You could keep 6 trout of various species (brown, rainbow etc.) plus an additional 16 brook trout.

Panfish are similar. Perch, bluegill, crappie are all lumped into the combination. So you couldn't keep 50 of each, but you could keep a total of 50 in combination.

All of this can be found on page three of the fishing regulations. Also, keep in mind, there may be exceptions, depending on the water and those can be found within the exception pages for each area.

Thank you very much
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 11, 2011, 04:25 PM
Fish population fluctuations

The fish populations seem to cycle a lot in the Wyoming waters I fish..  An example of my personal experience was during the low water years we caught walleyes and trout as fast as we could get crank baits in the water.  Then we had one good water year and for the next few years we had great perch fishing and we also started catching bull heads every trip.  Then last year the perch and trout numbers dropped off and I have not caught a bull head in two years. We have caught walleyes every year we just have to adjust our methods.   So  does the G&F have any idea why the perch and trout fishing has declined in Boysen so much? Also why did we have the big jump in bullhead numbers and then have them just seem like they vanished?  
Our creel survey information supports your observations that walleye fishing was good in 2002 and 2003 when Boysen Reservoir was very low.  The drought began in 2000 and within a few years, the receding shoreline suppressed the forage base.  The mean relative weight of walleye decreased during this time which was noticed by many anglers that voiced concerned for skinny walleye they were catching.  Even though walleye abundance was decreasing, angler success remained high suggesting walleye were easier to catch and probably foraging longer each day.  The filling of Boysen Reservoir in 2004, with the reduction in walleye, led to favorable conditions for yellow perch, black crappie and black bull head recruitment.  Survival of stocked rainbow trout also increased.   Between 2000 and 2002, yellow perch were virtually absent from our netting (averaging less than 1 fish per net).  Yellow perch abundance in nets averaged near or above 40 per net from 2004 through 2007 (peak was 83 yellow perch per net in 2006).  Walleye recruitment began increasing in 2005 and by 2007 there was a fairly high abundance of large walleye.  By 2008, walleye abundance and mean sized peaked and yellow perch abundance crashed.  Average yellow perch abundance in nets decreased from 39 in 2007 to only 7.2 in 2008.  In 2010, netting abundance was less than 2 yellow perch per net.  The high abundance of large walleye appeared to coincide with the crash in the yellow perch fishery, especially the smaller and juvenile sized yellow perch that anglers don’t harvest.  We don’t monitor black bullhead but I suspect they are influenced by reservoir fluctuations and predators such as yellow perch.  We are still stocking 50 thousand catchable sized rainbow trout per year.  The survival of rainbow trout and yellow perch has been low the past few years and is likely the result of the good, but declining walleye population.  As the walleye fishery declines yellow perch and rainbow trout fishing will improve.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 11, 2011, 04:52 PM
What kind of trout do you guy's stock? Trying to find goldens?  :tipup:
You name it, we pretty much stock it. Most of the trout that get stocked in WY are probably rainbow (especially in reservoirs). Other trout that get stocked in WY are: brown, brook, lake, cutthroat (4 subspecies, Colorado River, Yellowstone, Bear River, and Snake River), splake (hybrid between brook and lake trout), golden, tiger trout (hybrid between brown and brook), kokanee salmon, and sometimes grayling. Think I got'em all. The Lander, Cody, and Sheridan regions (not sure about Green River or Pinedale??) have a few waters with golden trout. I would recommend calling the regional offices and asking about golden trout fishing opportunities.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Keyhole21 on Feb 11, 2011, 06:00 PM
Great info here.  Is there a place you can access data like fish per net , ie website, library, regional office to see reports?
Also I know from this thread that G&F is having trouble getting tiger musky, but are there still any tiger musky in L.A.K. and if not are they going to restock when able?

Thanks for the learning something new everday fix.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Feb 11, 2011, 08:40 PM
Yes, anybody, child or adult, has to reside in the State of Wyoming for 10 consecutive years before buying a lifetime license. So the soonest that you could purchase a license for your child is at age 10 (if born in WY). Although technically a child doesn't need a license until the age of 14 (Youth license), it may be wise to purchase the lifetime license when first allowed as license fees may increase between the child's 14th and 18th birthdays.

Hope this helps
thank you for your anwer. not such a dumb question after all was it wyofarmer? :o :o :o
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: rodrunner on Feb 11, 2011, 09:27 PM
very sound info regarding Boysen and fish populations..
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Feb 12, 2011, 12:13 AM
Our creel survey information supports your observations that walleye fishing was good in 2002 and 2003 when Boysen Reservoir was very low.  The drought began in 2000 and within a few years, the receding shoreline suppressed the forage base.  The mean relative weight of walleye decreased during this time which was noticed by many anglers that voiced concerned for skinny walleye they were catching.  Even though walleye abundance was decreasing, angler success remained high suggesting walleye were easier to catch and probably foraging longer each day.  The filling of Boysen Reservoir in 2004, with the reduction in walleye, led to favorable conditions for yellow perch, black crappie and black bull head recruitment.  Survival of stocked rainbow trout also increased.   Between 2000 and 2002, yellow perch were virtually absent from our netting (averaging less than 1 fish per net).  Yellow perch abundance in nets averaged near or above 40 per net from 2004 through 2007 (peak was 83 yellow perch per net in 2006).  Walleye recruitment began increasing in 2005 and by 2007 there was a fairly high abundance of large walleye.  By 2008, walleye abundance and mean sized peaked and yellow perch abundance crashed.  Average yellow perch abundance in nets decreased from 39 in 2007 to only 7.2 in 2008.  In 2010, netting abundance was less than 2 yellow perch per net.  The high abundance of large walleye appeared to coincide with the crash in the yellow perch fishery, especially the smaller and juvenile sized yellow perch that anglers don’t harvest.  We don’t monitor black bullhead but I suspect they are influenced by reservoir fluctuations and predators such as yellow perch.  We are still stocking 50 thousand catchable sized rainbow trout per year.  The survival of rainbow trout and yellow perch has been low the past few years and is likely the result of the good, but declining walleye population.  As the walleye fishery declines yellow perch and rainbow trout fishing will improve.

Thank you for a detailed and great answer and it makes total sense.. It is to bad that we have to have such great fishing in one way but limited in others.. I am with most of the folks and think that the perch carry a special place in our hearts, because they are great to eat and how can you improve on any day  when the perch are bighting and you have a couple of kids to work the lines..
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Feb 12, 2011, 09:24 AM
thank you for your anwer. not such a dumb question after all was it wyofarmer? :o :o :o
I didn't think it was a dumb question, i just never thought of it that way..... :o :o :o
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Feb 12, 2011, 10:53 AM
I didn't think it was a dumb question, i just never thought of it that way..... :o :o :o
understand wyofarmer. common sense should apply but rarely does with legislative mumbo jumbo. lets go have a drink at the white house. tight lines, Joe
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Feb 12, 2011, 11:14 AM
understand wyofarmer. common sense should apply but rarely does with legislative mumbo jumbo. lets go have a drink at the white house. tight lines, Joe
I'll buy him a beer if i can chat with him..... :o
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ratfink1 on Feb 12, 2011, 08:32 PM
what time of the year do perch spawn
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: archetype_wyo on Feb 14, 2011, 09:22 AM
what time of the year do perch spawn

Quote from: Wikipedia link=http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellow_perch
Yellow Perch reach sexual maturity at one to three years of age for males and two to three years of age for females. Spawning occurs at the end of April or beginning of May, depositing 10,000 to 40,000 eggs upon weeds, or the branches of trees or shrubs that have become immersed in the water. After fertilization the eggs hatch in 11 to 27 days depending on temperature and other weather conditions.

To read the rest follow this link:: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellow_perch (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yellow_perch)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Feb 14, 2011, 11:05 AM
Do you think all the summer flooding is the reason for the huge boysen algae bloom? Have you ever seen this before? It is solid green in places. Do you think it could cause a winter die off?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Feb 14, 2011, 11:15 AM
Do you think all the summer flooding is the reason for the huge boysen algae bloom? Have you ever seen this before? It is solid green in places. Do you think it could cause a winter die off?
You might have something there duck. very good question.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Feb 14, 2011, 07:29 PM
How about introducing more smallmouth bass into Glendo? As I have heard there are some, but far and few in between.
I don't think I have  been to a more appropriate reservoir in this part of the country that would suit them. And why not better utilize that over abundance of food? The shad, crayfish, and carp minnows are in a population to support allot more predatory fish that what Glendo has now. With no real threat of swimming up stream and affecting the trout fishing 60mi up the Platte. With adding a fish more willing to bite on more occasion's it would give anglers something else to catch besides walleye. I understand the G&F stocked some in years past, but it does not seem they found each other, and were able to establish a population.

And has the G&F ever considered hybrid bass (wipers)?

Again ,
THANK YOU GUYS SOO MUCH! THIS IS BECOMING THE BEST PART OF THIS SITE! ;D
:tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: archetype_wyo on Feb 15, 2011, 08:20 AM
Here's a good question that deserves a gander(not the goose)...

Years ago Healy Reservoir just outside Buffalo on US Hwy 16 East was poisoned. What species of fish did you target and why did it fail to kill only those species and wiped out the "lunker rainbows" as well?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 15, 2011, 10:09 AM
To the Laramie crew, what is wrong with Lake Hattie? No one is catching much of anything out there and the contest in January sort of proved that. It would appear stocking needs to be a priority there as catch rates are dismal to the extreme. Thanks

Sportsman234,

Sorry for the delayed response I have been on leave.  We stock Lake Hattie every year; we try to stock Lake Hattie at a rate of about 82 trout per surface acre of water.  On top of that we stock 50,000 kokanee every year regardless of the amount of water in the lake.  We have to plan stocking numbers 3 years in advance in order for the WGFD fish culture facilities to plan accordingly in terms of the number of fish they can grow and hold.  This puts us in a little bit of a guessing game in terms of planning how many trout to stock in Lake Hattie to maintain our 82 trout per surface acre since the lake level fluctuates.  So basically over the last decade or so sometimes we have stocked over 82 trout per surface acre and sometimes we have been under that mark.  We are also concerned about the low catch rates over the last couple of years and we are going to increase the number of trout stocked in 2013 and if any extra fish become available from our fish culture section we will request those be stocked into Lake Hattie in 2011 and 2012.  We appreciate your concern and we will continue to work hard to increase catch rates at Lake Hattie.  Any further questions or clarifications just post and I will get them anserwed.

       

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 15, 2011, 10:29 AM
Hawk Springs question:

I remember Hawk Springs being a very good walleye fishery.  With many years of low water hopefully behind us, what are your thoughts on the walleye fishery rebounding?  Is there much structure in this lake that the fish can relate to?  Also, do these fish naturaly reproduce or are they all stocked?

Thanks for your time and help

Wyomingchad,

Sorry for the delayed response I have been on leave.  Over the last two years spring water levels at Hawk Springs Reservoir have improved, while still drawn down annually the fall water level has not approached the low minimum pool observed in 2006.  Based on research we conducted on the contribution of stocked walleye versues natural reproduction walleye stocking was discontinued from 2005 through 2008.  Due to the lack of juvenile walleye caught during annual sampling from 2006 through 2008, annual stocking was resumed in 2009.  Around 80,000 fingerling walleye (2-3 inches) were stocked in 2009 and 2010 and account for the large year class of walleye between 11-13 inches caught in 2010.  Some natural reproduction may be attributing to this large year class as spawning habitat has improved over the last two years.  All size classes of walleye were in good condition in 2010, which may be attributed to the numerous forage fish species (gizzard shad, spottail shiners, and crappie).  Very few crappie have been caught in past sampling events with short set ES, but crappie numbers increased in 2010.  Memorable sized crappie (>12 inches) await anglers who take advantage of this spring fishery.  Trot lines (not legal for anglers in Wyoming) were an effective sampling method for large channel catfish.  Channel catfish CPUE (catch per unit effort) remained low in 2010.  Reduced numbers of channel catfish were stocked in 2004 and 2005.  No channel catfish were stocked in 2002, 2003, 2006, 2007, and 2009.  The full request of 2,500 channel catfish fingerlings was stocked in 2008.  The inconsistent channel catfish stocking is most likely leading to a decline in the channel catfish CPUE.  Despite being stocked in 2008, no largemouth bass were captured in 2009 or 2010.  Based on our research natural reproduction was not enough to maintain the walleye fishery at Hawk Springs Reservoir, therefore we will continue to stock 80,000 walleye annually and we feel that this will increase walleye catch rates at Hawk Springs and hopefully the water will be there as well.  If you need more info let me know.                        
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 15, 2011, 10:30 AM
What kind of trout do you guy's stock? Trying to find goldens?  :tipup:

Soulfly,

In the Laramie Region we stock golden trout at Bear Lake, Shelf Lake #1, and Shelf Lake #2.  All three lakes are in the Snowy Range west of the City of Laramie. 

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wforbes on Feb 15, 2011, 03:21 PM
Sportsman234,

Sorry for the delayed response I have been on leave.  We stock Lake Hattie every year; we try to stock Lake Hattie at a rate of about 82 trout per surface acre of water.  On top of that we stock 50,000 kokanee every year regardless of the amount of water in the lake.  We have to plan stocking numbers 3 years in advance in order for the WGFD fish culture facilities to plan accordingly in terms of the number of fish they can grow and hold.  This puts us in a little bit of a guessing game in terms of planning how many trout to stock in Lake Hattie to maintain our 82 trout per surface acre since the lake level fluctuates.  So basically over the last decade or so sometimes we have stocked over 82 trout per surface acre and sometimes we have been under that mark.  We are also concerned about the low catch rates over the last couple of years and we are going to increase the number of trout stocked in 2013 and if any extra fish become available from our fish culture section we will request those be stocked into Lake Hattie in 2011 and 2012.  We appreciate your concern and we will continue to work hard to increase catch rates at Lake Hattie.  Any further questions or clarifications just post and I will get them anserwed.

       



What about introducing the idea of possibly fishing 6 rods at hattie and allowing people to seine native minnows to use at Hattie? That would be a dream come true!  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Soulfly on Feb 15, 2011, 04:16 PM
thanks you for the info on the trouts  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: LindaLou on Feb 15, 2011, 06:36 PM
I have been wondering the same thing... I would much rather blame the algae bloom for my lack of fish than to assume I just can't catch the critters.  This summer the lake was the worst I have seen it with green puck.  When you throw out a lure and it sits on top, that aint' a good thing.  ;)
Do you think all the summer flooding is the reason for the huge boysen algae bloom? Have you ever seen this before? It is solid green in places. Do you think it could cause a winter die off?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Feb 16, 2011, 11:46 AM
amazes me that its staying so green through winter...my tippup lines were solid green especially in the 30 to 40 foot water depth.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: VegasIce on Feb 16, 2011, 03:24 PM
Myself and some friends were wondering what it is that causes the meat of some Wyoming trout to be pink while others are white. One friend in particular moved here from Alaska and told me he had never seen white fleshed trout until he came here. We all have our ideas as to the color difference but would sure like to know from a reputable source what the real cause is. And on a side note all of us agree that the pink meat fish taste better in the pan.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyoming_Ice on Feb 16, 2011, 06:39 PM
 Can someone tell me when the ling spawn over here on the west side of the Winds ?  I had it in my mind that it was in late Feb and early March.
 Thank You  :tipup:

 Wyo Ice
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Dorado on Feb 17, 2011, 08:52 AM
Myself and some friends were wondering what it is that causes the meat of some Wyoming trout to be pink while others are white. One friend in particular moved here from Alaska and told me he had never seen white fleshed trout until he came here. We all have our ideas as to the color difference but would sure like to know from a reputable source what the real cause is. And on a side note all of us agree that the pink meat fish taste better in the pan.

It is thier food source.  Fish that eat a lot of zooplankton and scuds tend to accumulate more carotene, whcih is what gives them that orangy/red coloration.  Fish that consume mostly macroinvebrates or other fish tend to be whiter fleshed. 

Some trout/salmon farms even add carotene to the food that they feed their fish to make it look more appealing, kind of cheating!!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Team Lightning on Feb 17, 2011, 03:35 PM
But I would bet that the White meat is a Brown and the Orange meat is a Rainbow...they are both trout out of the same water. Their diets are different.
 

 Wyo Ice


Sure... I buy it..... in the past while visiting with some of the G&F folk...I have been told that in places like Meadowlark in the Big Horns that you may have one that is pink flesh and the other white... The white flesh is probabaly a stocked fish that may not have been in the lake long enough to have consumed the proper scuds to make the flesh change color yet.

   Makes sense to me ???
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bull perch on Feb 17, 2011, 11:36 PM
I would like to know if the game and fish can or have thought about transpanting a bunch of perch out of healy res and stocking them in lake desmet to help the perch population in the lake
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: archetype_wyo on Feb 18, 2011, 10:17 AM
I would like to know if the game and fish can or have thought about transpanting a bunch of perch out of healy res and stocking them in lake desmet to help the perch population in the lake



Better yet, lets see if we can get some Crappie around Buffalo...get a good like 500k put in Lake DeSmet or a 100k put in the Wetlands pond.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 18, 2011, 01:40 PM
I would like to know if the game and fish can or have thought about transpanting a bunch of perch out of healy res and stocking them in lake desmet to help the perch population in the lake

Lots of people have had this idea. It's just not that feasible. The time and effort needed to make any sort of difference in either lake would be astronomical. Believe it or not, the perch population is pretty strong in DeSmet right now. We have caught more perch in our nets the last few years. I myself fish DeSmet for the perch (the trout are just a bonus). Three weeks ago I caught 60 perch, kept 30, and all were above 8 inches with 15 perch between 9 and 10. The last three years I have caught four perch greater than 10 inches. The perch are there, (not quite like the days prior to the last raise in the reservoir). They are just a little more difficult to find at times.

Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 18, 2011, 01:46 PM

Better yet, lets see if we can get some Crappie around Buffalo...get a good like 500k put in Lake DeSmet or a 100k put in the Wetlands pond.
Crappie have been stocked in DeSmet in the past (30's, 40's, and 90's) and they have never done very well. Within a year or two of stocking them, they have disappeared. There is not enough structure and other crappie necessities for them to be successful in DeSmet.

As far as crappie in Buffalo Wetlands Pond, we would likely stay away from that for now. As I posted on the Healy thread the other day, perch and largemouth bass in Healy came from Buffalo Wetlands Pond. At this point, the last thing we need in Healy is another fish with the possibility of becoming over-abundant.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: cobra_19 on Feb 18, 2011, 02:49 PM
I have a question...is there anything wrong with planting a little man made structure ie. Christmas trees, rope, and a rock?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bull perch on Feb 18, 2011, 03:49 PM
thanks for the info good to here about the perch in the lake we also started catching more of them in the past three year just not to many with eny size 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoeyes on Feb 21, 2011, 02:00 AM
Were can you order state minnows to sell?.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: GonefishingWy on Feb 21, 2011, 06:35 PM
I would like any info about roach-gulch reservoir near Burlington.. type of fish if any and plans for the fishery.. I have heard there used to be some big trout in there... There is a ton of bait fish in there..
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Feb 21, 2011, 10:24 PM
How about introducing more smallmouth bass into Glendo? As I have heard there are some, but far and few in between.
I don't think I have  been to a more appropriate reservoir in this part of the country that would suit them. And why not better utilize that over abundance of food? The shad, crayfish, and carp minnows are in a population to support allot more predatory fish that what Glendo has now. With no real threat of swimming up stream and affecting the trout fishing 60mi up the Platte. With adding a fish more willing to bite on more occasion's it would give anglers something else to catch besides walleye. I understand the G&F stocked some in years past, but it does not seem they found each other, and were able to establish a population.

And has the G&F ever considered hybrid bass (wipers)?

Again ,
THANK YOU GUYS SOO MUCH! THIS IS BECOMING THE BEST PART OF THIS SITE! ;D
:tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tim6904 on Feb 21, 2011, 10:41 PM
good info here.  thanks for the info.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 22, 2011, 11:34 AM
Do you think all the summer flooding is the reason for the huge boysen algae bloom? Have you ever seen this before? It is solid green in places. Do you think it could cause a winter die off?

The summer flooding undoubtedly contributed to increased algae in Boysen Reservoir.  The amount of algae growth in a reservoir like Boysen is primarily dependent on the amount of nutrients in the water and the water temperature.  Flooding carries more nutrients downstream and into the reservoir and can, therefor, result in more extensive algal blooms.  Algal blooms are a yearly event in the reservoir, though there intensity varies from year to year.  Algae is not necessarily bad, and in fact is a very important component to the overall productivity of a body of water.  Algae constitutes the base of the food chain, upon which zooplankton feed.  Zooplankton are the primary food of the farage fish and young gamefish.  There are many different species of algae and some, especially blue-green algae, can be deleterious.  Blue-greens can be toxic and if dense enough can cause fish kills.  This rarely happens in Boysen and when it does it is usually very localized.  When algae and other plant life die in the winter, they decompose which results in the consumption of oxygen.  This can cause oxygen levels to drop low enough to cause fish kills in a very shallow lake with no water exchange.  For Boysen, with it's large volume and constant inflow of river water, a fish kill from decomposing algae or plants is not a concern.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 22, 2011, 11:37 AM
Can someone tell me when the ling spawn over here on the west side of the Winds ?  I had it in my mind that it was in late Feb and early March.
 Thank You  :tipup:

 Wyo Ice

I don't have any information specific to the west side of the divide, but spawning likely occurs in February.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 22, 2011, 11:52 AM
I have a question...is there anything wrong with planting a little man made structure ie. Christmas trees, rope, and a rock?

What you are suggesting can create good fish habitat, but you need to be aware of associated rules and regulations.  First, you need to coordinate with the landowner or management agency responsible for the water body.  Second, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulate the placement of all fill into water bodies of the United States.  A permit or letter of concurence from that agency is required for placement of trees and/or rock into any water body.  The Game and Fish is involved with a project that annually places about 500 Christmas trees at Ocean Lake.  To make that project happen, the Bureau of Reclamation (landowner) gives their blessing after completing the proper National Environmental Policy Act evaluation, and the Game and Fish applies for and receives a Corps of Engineers permit.  Welcome to the world of bureaucracy!                             
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 22, 2011, 11:59 AM
Were can you order state minnows to sell?.


Currently, one of the only producers of statewide minnows is the Department of Corrections, Wyoming Women's Center in Lusk. They are raising fathead minnows and are authorized to sell these minnows for statewide use, were the use of live bait is allowed.  This is their first year and I am not sure what their supply is like.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: minnowguy on Feb 22, 2011, 05:07 PM
Were can you order state minnows to sell?.

Marv's Minnows in Worland has state wide fatheads also. Look under the minnow dealer's section for info.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyoflyfish on Feb 24, 2011, 11:44 AM
I would also be interested in the question regarding smallmouth in Glendo.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Icephishwyo on Feb 24, 2011, 02:21 PM
What is the criteria for statewide fathead minnows? Do you have to raise them from certain fry (get them from G&F hatchery)Have them checked by a biologist? Treat them with with some thing to sterilize them? Trap them from a particular body of water? Must be a lot to it with all the drain and dry enforcement to protect waters!
Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyoming_Ice on Feb 24, 2011, 02:24 PM
I don't have any information specific to the west side of the divide, but spawning likely occurs in February.

 Thanks for the info   :tipup:

 Wyo Ice
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYpescadito on Feb 25, 2011, 12:56 PM
earlier somebody mentioned the Sand Mesa reservoirs by boysen were drained...my question is if/when will they ever be restocked?  I remember catching loads of bluegills out there as a little kid.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Feb 25, 2011, 07:35 PM
What are some of the largest drum netted / captured in Grayrocks?. 

Also curious as to their behavior in the spring in particular if a biologist as any information I'd appreciate it.
is your home work done son? ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: icefishing J on Feb 27, 2011, 09:19 PM
 did the game & fish put any fish in east allen, south of medicine bow.
 Thanks for your guys time, 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 28, 2011, 10:40 AM
What are some of the largest drum netted / captured in Grayrocks?. 

Also curious as to their behavior in the spring in particular if a biologist as any information I'd appreciate it.

Sydneydog,

From 2005 through 2010 the number of freshwater drum captured in our sampling gear has increased.  The majority of drum have ranged in length from 10 to 17 inches, with the largest caught at 17.5 inches.  The increase in drum has meant more anglers have found them on the end of their lines after a good fight, these fish are loved by some and hated by others. 

Freshwater drum spawning takes place during mid-summer and their eggs are free floating near the surface of the water and hatch in a matter of days.  The prefer shallower water of large lakes.  They get their name from their ability to make booming sounds by muscular action against their air bladder.  Their large otoliths in their head and large sensory canals on their sides of their head, and long lateral line are all adapted to pick up these booming sounds during the spawn.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 28, 2011, 10:55 AM
did the game & fish put any fish in east allen, south of medicine bow.
 Thanks for your guys time, 

Icefishing J,

East Allen Lake was not stocked in 2010 due to water quality concerns.  Water quality samples have been collected frequently since about 2006 when stocked fish survival appeared to be low.  Fish stocked in 2008 had low survival and the last fish stocked were 10,000 Bear River cutthroat in spring of 2009.  We have had sporadic reports of these fish being caught.  Prior to stocking in fish in 2009 24 rainbow trout from were placed in live cars and left for 10 days in the reservoir and were monitored.  Eleven mortalities were recorded near the end of the 10-day holding period. Live and dead fish were submitted to the WGFD Fish Health Lab. Unfortunately, no pathological or other reasons for cause of mortality were found.  In addition, the water quality parameter we were tested for did not lead us to a conclusion to what water quality issues may be affecting stocked fish survival.  The reasons for the low stocked fish survival continue to elude us.  Water conditions improved dramatically in 2010 and most likely most water quality issues will be resolved due to the influx of new water to the reservoir.  We have the regularly scheduled amount of stocked fish for 2011, which is 30,000 Bear River cutthroat and 30,000 rainbow trout to be stocked in April 2011.  We will continue to investigate other water quality parameters that may be affecting this fishery that are not regularly tested for.   

If you have any other questions let me know,

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Feb 28, 2011, 06:24 PM
How about introducing more smallmouth bass into Glendo? As I have heard there are some, but far and few in between.
I don't think I have  been to a more appropriate reservoir in this part of the country that would suit them. And why not better utilize that over abundance of food? The shad, crayfish, and carp minnows are in a population to support allot more predatory fish that what Glendo has now. With no real threat of swimming up stream and affecting the trout fishing 60mi up the Platte. With adding a fish more willing to bite on more occasion's it would give anglers something else to catch besides walleye. I understand the G&F stocked some in years past, but it does not seem they found each other, and were able to establish a population.

And has the G&F ever considered hybrid bass (wipers)?

Again ,
THANK YOU GUYS SOO MUCH! THIS IS BECOMING THE BEST PART OF THIS SITE! ;D
So?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Icephishwyo on Feb 28, 2011, 07:16 PM
I think they may have missed some from the page before this one ???
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: icefishing J on Feb 28, 2011, 09:04 PM
thanks for thew info, thanks for your time, ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: minn_man on Mar 01, 2011, 07:52 AM
To WGF Law Enforcement:

"Artificial Light
means any man-made light or lighting device."

"No person shall use an artificial light with the sole purpose of aiding
in the attraction or taking of fish. No person shall use any device
to physically extend an artificial light over the water to attract
fish. It is illegal to use or attempt to use artificially lighted hooked
devices."

Considering the above, is it legal to:

- charge glow jigs with artificial light before using them to fish with. (It is illegal to use or attempt to use artificially lighted hooked devices.)

- charge glow tubes with artificial light before using them to fish with. (It is illegal to use or attempt to use artificially lighted hooked devices)

- attach chemical "glow sticks" to your fishing line
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishaholictaz on Mar 04, 2011, 11:01 AM
Well sorry to do this but I called Cheyenne and charging glow jigs with any kind of light is LEGAL sounds like there needs to be a meeting of the minds with the WY G&F :-\ Chemlights such as glowsticks are not legal along with batt. powered lights.... All lights are ok above the surface of the water as long as they are not directed down in the water :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishaholictaz on Mar 04, 2011, 11:30 AM
I have also contacted the Laramie office and they are going to spend some time and get a FINAL ruling but the impressions seem to be the same as what I got from the Cheyenne officer. I did not get to talk to a supervisor but that is what the Laramie officer is doing for me. Just trying to clear things up for everyone :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: LT on Mar 05, 2011, 01:31 PM
Thanks for helping get to the core of the regs Taz and thanks to all who participated in this brisk, productive discussion, I've de-fragged the thread and left only the most important info so we keep the Q's and A's going in an efficient fashion so new readers understand where we got to and how we got there without having to read every last post. Again, thanks.
                                                              Don  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Mar 06, 2011, 01:51 AM
question ? there is a lake located between burlington and meteetsee used for irrigation,looks like it would make a great fishing lake but doesnt seem to be much access to it.Anyone have any info on it?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mallardmuncher on Mar 07, 2011, 11:35 AM
That's Roach Gulch Res.  It a res used for irrigation only but I have been told it has some nice fish that get drawn into the canal.  Cuts mostly
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: lingrus on Mar 07, 2011, 04:50 PM
I talked to a young ranch hand a few years ago. He bank fished it and got some nice cutts.  I would have no idea who to contact for access.  My neighbor worked on building it and was adamant that was not going to be used for fishing.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Tripwy on Mar 07, 2011, 05:11 PM
Fished ol roach one afternoon earlier this year for a couple of hours.  One rainbow was it, very healthy though.  Had to walk a longways to get down to the water.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tumbleweed on Mar 07, 2011, 05:34 PM
Laramie G&F
I know that Diamond Lake was abandoned due to a lack of water a few years back and that Alsop took its place as a trophy lake in the SE corner of the state. It looks as though we are going to have another banner year for water. Is there any chance that this lake might be planted again and reopened for fishing?
Thank you, Geo
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: auhunter on Mar 07, 2011, 07:33 PM
A question on the length limit for walleye on the river below the damn at Glendo Reservoir. I would like too know if the regs for the reservoir are the same for the river below the damn 15" or less have to be released? We  were reading them at work today and could not find that their was special regulations or diffrent regs for the river! So if the regulations for walleye aren't the same as they are for the reservoir how could you keep a smaller walleye and still go through the park too get out ? Not that I would keep any thing smaller than 15". It was one of those questions that we could not come up with an answer for! 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: icingeyes on Mar 08, 2011, 10:45 PM
Just getting started on the site but I got an opionion to share. Been reading a few of the comments and theres alot of negetivity about the guys keeping large walleyes out of Keyhole. I've seen seen guys leave that lake with a limit of 6 over 5 pounds each. That hurts a fishery. I say fine keep one sometime. If people beleive it's so wrong maybe we need to discuss this with the G & F. Not sure why a guy has to wait until a pike hits 30" just to keep one but we are able to take 6 walleyes any size a day off of most Wyoming lake. If a pike is such a great game fish to the G & F maybe they should start stocking them everywhere instead of just Keyhole. Most of our lakes here in Wyoming are smaller than the Dakotas, but theres no reason why we couldn't enjoy some of the world class fishing that is offered, if the creel limits were lower and a 1 fish a day over a set size was implaimented.   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MountainMan on Mar 08, 2011, 10:53 PM
REMINDER TO KEEP THE DISCUSSION DOWN ON THIS THREAD. IT'S MAINLY GAME & FISH Q&A. FEEL FREE TO START DISCUSSIONS ON A SEPARATE THREAD.

Thanks,
MM

p.s. I will be cleaning up the thread again soon.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Mar 08, 2011, 11:03 PM
May I please add to this question? 

With Nebraska being so close to Glendo reservoir, if there was enough public interest from all of us WY residents would the WYGF consider ever stocking Flathead catfish in addition to channel cats? (In Glendo that is)

Since the donated  flathead cats were "experimentally stocked" in the North Platte has the WYGF had any $$$ put away for the purchase of more flathead catfish?

If there was enough public interest would the WYGF ever consider stocking Flathead catfish anywhere in the state?

In your professional opinion, what would be the most ideal lake or river system to stock Flathead catfish in WY? (given WY had the funding and public interest)

Has the WYGF ever considered stocking blue cats in reservoirs?

That was a bunch of questions, but I really like to catfish. Thank you for your input.

Bump
If any G&F employees, especially fish biologists would like to add anything to these questions please feel free to respond.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: opyff on Mar 08, 2011, 11:30 PM
I am from southwest WY and the burbot topic always comes up especially when the trout fishing is slow mainly on the Gorge and Fontanelle, everyone blames the burbot.  So my question is, why can burbot and other fish species live in the same reservoirs just fine east of the divide but not west of the divide?  And does this have anything to do with the lack of bait and pan fish in the west divide reservoirs?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Mar 09, 2011, 09:02 AM
There is currently a lot of buzz going around some forums I watch... the word is that certain federal fish hatcheries are losing funding and it could very well have an impact on our state.

For example, we get most if not all of our walleyes from a hatchery in North Dakota.  If this were to shut down what impact will it have on our walleye fisheries?...  (Check out this article http://www.bismarcktribune.com/...68-001cc4c03286.html  (http://www.bismarcktribune.com/...68-001cc4c03286.html))

There is also a hatchery in Utah I believe that would impact the Gorge and rainbow trout. 

Any news or information on this latest news the Wyoming G/F can comment on?

One last question:  Why has there not been an effort to establish warm water fish species hatcheries in Wyoming?  For species such as Walleye and Channel catfish?
Good topic and I'm sorry I really don't have a good answer. You are correct, we do receive warm and cool water fish from out of state hatcheries and conceivably, with loss of funding, this could impact Wyoming. I don't think anyone has an idea of if, when, or how bad.

As to your other question of Wyoming establishing a warm/coolwater hatchery. There are a couple likely reasons why we haven't. Constructing a warmwater hatchery would be very expensive (no actual idea of cost, but certainly in the 10's of millions). Warm/cool water hatcheries require massive amounts of space b/c most species of fish (walleye) are better raised in ponds. Wyoming probably isn't the best location for mass pond culture of warm/cool water fish species b/c of our high elevation and cold springtime temperatures.

Wyoming has a huge advantage however. We are awesome at raising trout. We raise so many trout and produce so many trout eggs we end up with extras. These extras end up being used in trades for other fish. Our state is awesome at raising trout and North Dakota is awesome at raising pike and walleye. This scenario works out well for all parties involved. We'll make your trout, you'll make our walleye.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishingeorge on Mar 09, 2011, 11:32 AM
Can you launch a boat downstream of dave johnson power plant and drive a boat upstream to the dam and fish?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 09, 2011, 02:33 PM
Laramie G&F
I know that Diamond Lake was abandoned due to a lack of water a few years back and that Alsop took its place as a trophy lake in the SE corner of the state. It looks as though we are going to have another banner year for water. Is there any chance that this lake might be planted again and reopened for fishing?
Thank you, Geo


Geo/Tumbleweed,

Diamond Lake was last stocked in 2001.  Drought conditions and more efficient irrigation practices lead to the evaporation of water from Diamond Lake.  From what I have been told flood irrigation used to be the main irrigation practice in that country, but that changed over the drought years.  The snowfence built to add some supplemental water to Diamond Lake did not provide enough recharge to keep pace with the annual evaporation rate and so the lake is now a puddle, or at least it was last time I was there.  Despite the recent banner water years, natural runoff does not enter the lake.  The WGFD is working hard at all options of getting water to Diamond Lake.  Water is a very expensive commodity and there are many different stakeholders involved with the various scenarios that would get water to the lake.  We have not given up on this lake and realize its importance in providing excellent fishing in southeast WY.

Hope that gives you hope and the answer you were looking for,

WGFDLaramieBio
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishaholictaz on Mar 15, 2011, 12:05 AM
Sounds like after much debate the final word has come in on charging glow jigs. As long as you are not charging your jig while it is under the surface of the water it is legal :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: outdoorschris on Mar 20, 2011, 11:43 PM
Matt that was very well put
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Mar 21, 2011, 06:08 PM
Matt that was very well put
Thanks ;D

I will put my soap box away now. ;D ;D ;D ;D

Sorry for the Derail MM. ;D ;)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishwhisperer307 on Mar 22, 2011, 01:10 PM
any1 know why alsop winterkilled!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 23, 2011, 11:24 AM
any1 know why alsop winterkilled!!!!!!!!!!

fishwhisperer307,

The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew is aware of the fish kill at Alsop Lake.  We walked about half of the lake this last Monday and counted over 50 dead fish on the shoreline.  We have not been able to get a boat onto the lake yet due to the wind to assess how many fish might be on the bottom of the lake.  Dead small minnow species were also observed along the shoreline.  Water quality measurements were taken also on Monday and they all appeared normal, so whatever has happened is now over.  We will be sampling the lake soon and this will give us a better idea if this was a partial winterkill or complete winterkill.  We do stock about 5,000 trout annually into Alsop Lake, so 50 dead ones along the shore would not represent a large portion of the population.   In addition, we will be restocking the lake mid-April and this fish will grow quickly.  One reason this event may have happened: The lake was still frozen as of this last Thursday and then opened up very quickly.  Over the winter oxygen in the water that settles to the bottom of the lake can become depleted.  When a lake becomes unfrozen and the wind turns the lake over quickly the anoxic water mixes.  This can cause oxygen levels throughout the lake to potentially drop quickly causing fish to die.  This is just one possislbe cause of this event.  When Alsop Lake maintains a good water level, like it has over the last couple of years, winterkill events like this have been rare, so we hope this was just a one time Perfect Storm of environmental variables coming together.  Again, we will be sampling the lake in a week or so and I will post results for those of you interested. 

Thanks for your concern,

WGFDLaramieFishBio
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Mar 23, 2011, 05:54 PM
Do you think all the summer flooding is the reason for the huge boysen algae bloom? Have you ever seen this before? It is solid green in places. Do you think it could cause a winter die off?
We have observed algal blooms following high water events that carry nutrients to Boysen Reservoir.  The only die off that we've observed was related to a summer kill when wind blew algae into the dam region.  It was the year that there were many fires throughout the Wind River Mountains.  Alge produces oxygen when it receives sunlight and uses oxygen during the dark.  The dense algae near the dam with overcast from smoke resulted in an oxygen deficit near the dam killing trout, black crappie, perch and burbot.  During the winter, algae production decreases because of cold water and less sunlight penetrating through the ice.  Similar to garden plants, algae needs sunlight, fertilizer and warm temperatures to grow fast.  Algal blooms are common to many waters and are common to many of the bays in Boysen Reservoir.  Last year (2010) was a very extreme year.  Fish are good about avoiding poor water conditions and will move to reservoir regions where water conditions are more favorable.  Its rare to have them die such as near the dam.  The conditions must have occured very rapidly that caused the fish kill near the dam.   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: outdoorschris on Mar 23, 2011, 09:21 PM
Can you launch a boat downstream of dave johnson power plant and drive a boat upstream to the dam and fish?

Would like to know this too
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mackhead3 on Mar 26, 2011, 08:36 PM
I don't understand why we can't fillet lake trout at the lake. I'm sure if we kept the carcass game and fish could tell that the fish was not over 28"
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MountainMan on Mar 27, 2011, 06:08 PM
Thanks to the G&F for participating this season!!! Hope this thread was a valuable resource for everyone involved. I understand the fish biologists are probably pretty all summer long, but invite them to join us on the MFF site http://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/index.php?board=36.0 (http://www.myfishfinder.com/fishing_forum/index.php?board=36.0)
Thanks again!
MM
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Mar 28, 2011, 05:35 PM
HEAR HEAR! +1! ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: thill on Nov 05, 2011, 04:25 PM
As a nonresident whom loves to fish and hunt I am confused about the buying a fishing license in January.  If in January I buy a annual nonresident fishing license since I love to ice fish,  then apply for a big game license.  If successful in the big game draw, do I have to pay for fishing license with my big game tag.  This would appear that I bought 2 annual fishing licenses which I would suspect would be illegal.  Would I be refunded one of the fishing license fees?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Nov 06, 2011, 02:49 PM
As a nonresident whom loves to fish and hunt I am confused about the buying a fishing license in January.  If in January I buy a annual nonresident fishing license since I love to ice fish,  then apply for a big game license.  If successful in the big game draw, do I have to pay for fishing license with my big game tag.  This would appear that I bought 2 annual fishing licenses which I would suspect would be illegal.  Would I be refunded one of the fishing license fees?
Welcome thill! Try this link...
http://gf.state.wy.us/downloads/pdf/11AppBooklet/11NRALL.pdf (http://gf.state.wy.us/downloads/pdf/11AppBooklet/11NRALL.pdf)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: thill on Nov 06, 2011, 03:13 PM
I'm still confused, if I want to buy a nonresident annual fishing license to fish during the month of January and then apply for a nonresident elk tag.  If successful in the elk draw, did I then buy two nonresident fishing licenses or did I pay for a nonresident fishing license twice?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyohunter on Nov 06, 2011, 03:43 PM
I believe the fishing lic on the nonres elk lic is thrown in for free, If you drew a 2011 elk lic then you can fish in 2011.But since the drawing isn't until  Feb if you want to fish in  Jan. 2012 you would have buy a fishing lic. and a stamp. or wait to see if you drew the elk tag.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Nhurley on Nov 23, 2011, 07:34 PM
Just getting started on the site but I got an opionion to share. Been reading a few of the comments and theres alot of negetivity about the guys keeping large walleyes out of Keyhole. I've seen seen guys leave that lake with a limit of 6 over 5 pounds each. That hurts a fishery. I say fine keep one sometime. If people beleive it's so wrong maybe we need to discuss this with the G & F. Not sure why a guy has to wait until a pike hits 30" just to keep one but we are able to take 6 walleyes any size a day off of most Wyoming lake. If a pike is such a great game fish to the G & F maybe they should start stocking them everywhere instead of just Keyhole. Most of our lakes here in Wyoming are smaller than the Dakotas, but theres no reason why we couldn't enjoy some of the world class fishing that is offered, if the creel limits were lower and a 1 fish a day over a set size was implaimented.

Actually this is a common misconception. According to a study by the Ohio Division of Wildlife it is true that as female walleye increase in age and size they tend to produce a larger number of eggs. However as age and size increase the percentage of eggs which are viable (capable of being fertilized, and end up as fry) decreases. " The younger females, ages 4-7 and lengths of 18-24 inches (these are averages, and can vary), will produce the most 'viable' eggs." This is from the Ohio Sea Grant Web site which has some good info. I thought the same thing forever until a fisheries professor at UW proved me wrong. Here is a great paper on the subject. http://www.afsc.noaa.gov/Quarterly/Features/feature_amj92.pdf
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyruffneck on Nov 24, 2011, 08:53 PM
i was woundering if someone had a wyoming fishing lic. can you fish the utah side of flaming gorge and vice versa  without geting a non resed. lic.  for utah
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: er-e-is on Nov 24, 2011, 10:09 PM
You have to get a Reciprocal stamp to fish the Utah side

Flaming Gorge Reservoir
To fish across state lines at Flaming Gorge, you
must have a valid fishing license from one state
and a reciprocal fishing permit from the other
state. For example, if you buy a Utah resident or
nonresident fishing license, you can fish the Utah
portion of Flaming Gorge. After buying your Utah
license, if you decide you also want to fish the
Wyoming portion of the reservoir, you must buy a
Wyoming reciprocal fishing permit.
For more information on obtaining a Wyoming
reciprocal fishing permit, call the Wyoming
Game and Fish Department at 307-777-4600.
Utah reciprocal fishing permits are available
at wildlife.utah.gov and from Utah Division of
Wildlife Resources offices and license agents that
sell Utah fishing licenses.
A Wyoming second-pole permit is not valid
in Utah, even with a reciprocal fishing permit.
A Utah second-pole permit must be purchased
if you’d like to fish in Utah with two poles at the
same time.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mulebarnmax on Nov 28, 2011, 10:53 AM
Here's a question my buddy and I are wondering. Asking this for open water as well as ice time. Can a person hook a fish and then pass the rod/line to another person, such as a kid or older person, for them to land the fish. We all know sometimes it takes experience to learn to feel those subtle bites and if you are trying to mentor someone it is nice to help/show them what to do.  And of course to keep their interest it's nice if they get to land a fish or two
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: benwyo on Dec 04, 2011, 03:14 PM
You have to get a Reciprocal stamp to fish the Utah side

Flaming Gorge Reservoir
To fish across state lines at Flaming Gorge, you
must have a valid fishing license from one state
and a reciprocal fishing permit from the other
state. For example, if you buy a Utah resident or
nonresident fishing license, you can fish the Utah
portion of Flaming Gorge. After buying your Utah
license, if you decide you also want to fish the
Wyoming portion of the reservoir, you must buy a
Wyoming reciprocal fishing permit.
For more information on obtaining a Wyoming
reciprocal fishing permit, call the Wyoming
Game and Fish Department at 307-777-4600.
Utah reciprocal fishing permits are available
at wildlife.utah.gov and from Utah Division of
Wildlife Resources offices and license agents that
sell Utah fishing licenses.
A Wyoming second-pole permit is not valid
in Utah, even with a reciprocal fishing permit.
A Utah second-pole permit must be purchased
if you’d like to fish in Utah with two poles at the
same time.

What is a Wyoming second-pole permit? I never have heard of this before, is it something special for fishing The Flaming Gorge?
Thanks Benwyo.....
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 08, 2011, 02:17 PM
Good to be back on Ice Shanty, looking forward to answering your questions regarding Laramie Region waters.

Update on Meeboer, Gelatt, Alsop, Twin Buttes:

Meeboer Lake
We reconfigured the aeration system this October at Meeboer to hopefully carry Meeboer through this winter.  All of the diffusers (or bubblers) are in one deep hole in the southwest portion of the lake.  We also set a gill net for 3 hours at Meeboer Lake this October to check the status of fish stocked in April.  Fish stocked in April were already 16 inches, but the good news is that we caught two rainbow trout over 5 pounds and one was almost 7 pounds, meaning the lake did not have a complete winterkill last winter.  On December 8, we checked the oxygen level at Meeboer Lake and the level is currently good.  Visability was around 6 feet.  Ice was about 4-6 inches and there is open water near the aeration system.

Gelatt Lake
We checked the oxygen level at Gelatt Lake on December 8 and the level is currently good.  The ice was about 4-6 inches and there is a small spot of open water near the aeration system.  Visability was around 4-5 feet.

Alsop Lake
I actually ice fished Alsop Lake on December 6, we did not catch any fish, but did mark 15 or more fish.  We checked the oxygen level at Alsop Lake on December 8 and level was very good.  Visability was around 3-4 feet.  Fish stocked this April should be around 16 inches, we like to hear from someone about their size if anyone catches a fish at Alsop.     

Twin Buttes
10,000 5 inch rainbow trout were stocked in Twin Buttes in April, while it might not be as productive as Meeboer, we still expect these fish to be between 14-16 inches.  There were also 2,500 brood cull rainbow trout (about 14 inches) stocked in Dec. 2010 and this fish should be between 18-20 inches. Not sure of the current ice conditions at Twin Buttes.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Iceman77 on Dec 08, 2011, 07:04 PM
Is it true that minnows are aloud on Desmit and Healy this year?  If so where can you buy them for those water ways?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Dec 08, 2011, 07:13 PM
Hey, welcome back WGFDFishBioLaramie!! ;D Thanks for taking the time man!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Dilli on Dec 08, 2011, 08:52 PM
I apologize if this is a repeat. Is Wheatland 3 back as a fishery yet? Will it ever be?  Same for Diamond.  I was thumbing thru a fly fishing the Western Lakes book at Sportsmans last year and this author listed Diamond as #6 on his top 10 Lakes in the West!  I had to chuckle as the last time I was there in my float tube, I was literally covered in skuds, but there was not 1 fish in the lake.  Found that out after I checked in at the Fly store.  In the mid 80's it was awesome!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: lowrygofish on Dec 08, 2011, 10:10 PM
Wheatland 3 is back as a good fishery.  However, diamond lake is not back.  The Laramie Biologists are working on that.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: kiddro2003 on Dec 11, 2011, 06:13 PM
At what point does a piece of game taken no longer count toward your possession limit? IE ground processed elk, jerky?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Dec 11, 2011, 09:13 PM
Wild game IE deer, elk, antilope, moose, big horn sheep and goat relate to the licence you held during the season.  So if in 2012 you still have elk stakes left from 2011 elk tag no problem. Again it relates to licence and seasons.   Fish is only what the daily limits list.  So if you have 6 walleyes, that is all you can have in possession at any one time per licence.  Also all other game  fish follow the same rule. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 12, 2011, 09:11 AM
Is it true that minnows are aloud on Desmit and Healy this year?  If so where can you buy them for those water ways?
Yes it is true. Starting January 1st, 2012, the use of STATEWIDE CERTIFIED minnows will be allowed for use on DeSmet and Healy. DeSmet has the Special Winter Ice Fishing Provision (the use of 6 rods or tip-ups (in any combination)), while Healy does not (max two rods or tip-ups). Locally, we are still not 100% sure who will carry the Statewide Certified minnows. We have heard that the Lake Stop Marina, Sports Lure, and BCNU Bait (Main St, Sheridan) may carry the minnows. In Gillette, Ace Hardware carries the certified minnows.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ratfink1 on Dec 12, 2011, 12:26 PM
I would like too now if it is true that the Game and fish put Lake trout in Granite and Crystal ?And if so Y
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ICErm on Dec 12, 2011, 05:03 PM
I fished the Upper Sunshine lake last year just after they drained a few feet out to the Lower Sunshine, does G&F work with the town regarding the timing of that transfer or is it solely up to the town?  Does the transfer happen about the same time every year or is it just dependant upon consumption and the level of the lower lake.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyofly99 on Dec 13, 2011, 08:51 PM
Why not put Perch, Bass and Crappie in Alcova and Pathfinder? Sure would be nice to have a assortment...
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Dec 13, 2011, 10:23 PM
this one is about the perch in Alcova.

http://trib.com/lifestyles/recreation/article_0d082638-3c4c-54a0-9499-d6fe3f991493.html (http://trib.com/lifestyles/recreation/article_0d082638-3c4c-54a0-9499-d6fe3f991493.html)


this one is about the lmb towards the bottom of the article.

http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/article_cd21aa79-97a3-5e88-9ce2-723fa427fab7.html (http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/article_cd21aa79-97a3-5e88-9ce2-723fa427fab7.html)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: auhunter on Dec 15, 2011, 09:41 AM
Just a point of intrest has any one seen the new regulations for 2012, are they out, if not does any one know when they will be out.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Dec 15, 2011, 10:58 AM
The new regulations for 2012 are now available on the Game and Fish website and if license selling agents do not already have copies, they should have them within a few days.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: auhunter on Dec 15, 2011, 11:12 AM
Thanks to the WGFDFishBioLander

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Dec 15, 2011, 10:59 PM
Some people have been hearing we will lose public access to Toltec starting 2012, Is this true?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Big Al 1 on Dec 16, 2011, 12:21 AM
Jopes two years ago I had the pleasure to talk to Lee McDonald who is a fish biologist from Laramie. I asked him the same question about toltec. I from what I can recall there is a 100 year lease for public access to toltec and that the lease would not expire for a while. That question has been lingering around for a while now. All we can do as sportsmen is to respect the surrounding property and not abuse our privileges.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 16, 2011, 08:42 AM
   What I think is really stupid is reducing the limit to 3 stream trout.
Make sure to review the exception pages for each specific drainage/region. There are several examples where the new statewide creel limit does not apply e.g. Buffalo Bill Reservoir and Flaming Gorge. When it came to the stream regulation the rationale for that was to help protect and conserve native cutthroat fisheries on the western half of the state. If you look closely at the exceptions, all of the Bighorn Mountains (except of the couple exceptions) have been excluded from the statewide limit, so you can still keep six trout (plus the brook trout). The rationale for getting rid of the 1 over 20" in lakes and reservoirs is that most of these lakes and reservoirs are stocked for people to catch and spawning opportunities are limited or nonexistent. So rather than potentially waste a nice fish, the decision was made to eliminate this regulation. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: er-e-is on Dec 20, 2011, 08:17 AM
Why is the lake trout limit 2 fish on Half Moon Lake and Middle Piney Lake, while it is 6 fish on lakes like Fremont, Boulder, etc? Half Moon is full of those 16'' - 20'' fish. It seems like they need thinned out a little.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Dec 20, 2011, 08:23 PM
i did not go through the whole post so i'm sorry if this has already been asked.
 
i fish the gorge and.i have my name on my tip ups and rods. the thing is i ask out allot of people to go with me just to get more folks into the outdoors.and i let them use my gear i have plenty for them and me.do i have to take my name off my gear and put theres on when we  are using more than three rods and or tip ups. any help on this well be very appreciated
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: minnowguy on Dec 20, 2011, 08:58 PM
i did not go through the whole post so i'm sorry if this has already been asked.
 
i fish the gorge and.i have my name on my tip ups and rods. the thing is i ask out allot of people to go with me just to get more folks into the outdoors.and i let them use my gear i have plenty for them and me.do i have to take my name off my gear and put theres on when we  are using more than three rods and or tip ups. any help on this well be very appreciated
I carry a role of duck tape with me and a black marker pen and have whoever is with me put their names on witch ever they are using then your good to go. Everyone has to have there names on their poles that they are using. M.G.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYOiceman on Dec 21, 2011, 09:28 AM
I know as biologists you guys spend quite a lot of time on the water collecting data. Netting, shocking,water sampling, creel surveys, and more I am sure I missed.

My question concerns creel surveys.  I spend quite a bit of time fishing year round, and can only remember being surveyed once in the last 3 years. I realize that the people doing creel work can not be all places at all times.

I wondered what % of the data collected is supplied by creel surveys , or what weight is given to creel survey data ?
Has there ever been any thought given to anglers being given a survey form(similar to a big game survey) at the time they purchase their license to kind of keep a log of fishing activity, or an online survey ?
Would this kind of information be usefull ?
Or would it be unreliable ? cost prohibitive ? lacking in enough participation to make it usefull ?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 307_bows on Dec 28, 2011, 01:22 PM
I am wondering about the possibility of lake trout in Walker Jenkins. From what I have read, the lake is very deep, and the water is fairly cold year round. Seems like it would be a perfect place for them. Also, I think I read years ago that there were kokes in it, are there still any?
Thanks,
307_BOWS
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishsqueezer on Dec 29, 2011, 11:27 AM
Why is the lake trout limit 2 fish on Half Moon Lake and Middle Piney Lake, while it is 6 fish on lakes like Fremont, Boulder, etc? Half Moon is full of those 16'' - 20'' fish. It seems like they need thinned out a little.

I got on here to reply to some messages and it had been so long they removed my handle... Anyway, I'm back. 

Those regulations on 1/2 Moon and Middle Piney are relics from long ago when there was concern that the fish were being exploited, the rational being that they were smaller lakes, had smaller lake trout populations, and supported higher use.  You might have noticed that I did remove that regulation on Lower Green River Lake 2 years ago as a kind of "test" scenario to see how the population responds... we have been intensively monitoring it to evaluate any changes. 
I wouldn't expect any changes on 1/2 Moon anytime soon though, as we do like to maintain some diverstity so that all of the lakes don't offer the same opportunity as the other.  That is, by maintaining higher lake trout numbers, it does promote smaller size, but it also promotes higher catch rates, which makes 1/2 moon somewhat unique from say Fremont and offers people a different opportunity in and around Pinedale.
Hope that helps answer some of your questions. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishsqueezer on Dec 29, 2011, 11:29 AM
I carry a role of duck tape with me and a black marker pen and have whoever is with me put their names on witch ever they are using then your good to go. Everyone has to have there names on their poles that they are using. M.G.

That is the answer I would suggest, as each person's gear needs to be properly marked. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishsqueezer on Dec 29, 2011, 11:33 AM
We were talking about that last night.... 6 trout, no length limit in lakes.... verses the 3 trout limit in streams.  So, in Casper for example it's common to drive to Pathfinder or Alcova early in the day, and fish back to town along the river (finding the less windy spots along the way).

Question is.... Say I keep 3 trout from Pathfinder, can I stop and fish the river in hopes of keeping 3 more?  Or will I have to release everything from the river since I have 3 fish in the cooler?

YOu shouldn't have in your possession any more than the limit for the water you are fishing.  Suggest maybe fishing the river first, then Pathfinder?

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: er-e-is on Dec 29, 2011, 08:48 PM
Thanks for the answer fishsqueezer.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Tripwy on Dec 30, 2011, 08:58 AM
What happened to Whaley's reservoir out by Emblem... There used to be some good fish in there.  Will the G&F ever stock it again?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Dec 30, 2011, 09:04 AM
To the WyG&F-

Can live bait be seined or trapped in the Powder River/tributaries and used in the Sheridan region? (Kleiborn Acme ponds) If the appropriate seining liscense is possessed of course.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Dec 30, 2011, 06:15 PM
To the WyG&F-

Can live bait be seined or trapped in the Powder River/tributaries and used in the Sheridan region? (Kleiborn Acme ponds) If the appropriate seining liscense is possessed of course.

Not according to an earlier post on here.  Starting Jan 1 I don't think you will be able to use minnows in the Kleenburn Ponds, but will be able to use "statewide" (read fathead minnows raised at a certified hatchery) at Healy and DeSmet. 

I don't think people have ever been able to seine minnows in the Powder River or tribs. 

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyreellifeguy on Jan 01, 2012, 07:53 AM
does Wyoming still stock tiger muskies in any waters if not way
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jpearce1fly on Jan 03, 2012, 10:48 AM
What is the perch situation in Lake Hattie.  I know a few years back when the lake was smaller they were a great target fish for ice fishing.  I was wondering what if anything the Game and Fish knows about this population of fish.  And can we expect their numbers to increase with the new size of the lake?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: sportsman234 on Jan 03, 2012, 11:25 AM
To the Laramie G&F crew:

 With the new reg. change for lakes it would seem smaller lakes such as Gelatt, Meeboer, Leazenby could be severely hurt going to 6 fish any size. Why was such a drastic change made after having the previous 1 fish over 20" for many, many years in effect? I really think on small lakes this could be a bad idea. Larger lakes like Seminoe, Boysen, Flaming Gorge I could see it but not small impoundments. Anyone want to explain the logic behind the change?

Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: badsparky on Jan 03, 2012, 11:29 AM
Are there perch in West Newton lake near Cody?  Have heard rumors but I have never seen or caugt any there.

Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 03, 2012, 03:56 PM
does Wyoming still stock tiger muskies in any waters if not way
Happy New Year and thanks for the question. The stocking of tiger musky in Wyoming has not occurred since 2006 in LAK Reservoir near Newcastle.  Since Wyoming does not raise tiger musky, we rely on other states for these fish; our source was Pennsylvania. Starting in 2007 (I think) a moratorium was put into place to stop the moving of fish from east of the Mississippi to west of the Mississippi, hopefully to prevent the spread of a disease called VHS (Viral Hemorrhagic Septicmia), a nasty disease that has caused some drastic fish declines across parts of the U.S. As of this point (that we know of), Wyoming does not have VHS, nor do we want to accidentally bring it in, thus tiger musky stocking has ceased for now.

Other states have started to develop their own tiger musky and it is our hopes that WGFD will be able to work with these states so that we can once again stock tiger musky into some of our waters.

Tiger muskies (a northern pike - muskellunge hybrid) are a useful tool. They are a sterile fish so we can control the numbers by how many we stock. They are ferocious predators, so they can put down lots of groceries and help control undesirable fish (as was done in LAK Reservoir with green sunfish and white suckers, major decline in these species since tiger musky have been stocked). Plus they usually provide a "trophy" component to the water in which they were stocked.

We are hopeful that one day (soon I hope) we will once again be able to stock some tiger musky.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: theburbotking on Jan 03, 2012, 04:02 PM
trade with utah for tigers!!!  and get some some more channel cats in this state!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: blockice on Jan 03, 2012, 04:09 PM
hello g&f my question is why year after year seminoe is put in a different drainage than pathfinder it makes absolutely no sense to me and makes it very tough to icefish in the winter with minnows all i want to do is stop at sloanes and drive in past the mile and the dam. its one of the greatest drives out there in my opinion
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: TN on Jan 10, 2012, 09:57 AM
What causes a fish population to become stunted?  I always thought it was lack of food availability - either a crash in the food base or population explosion of fish, or a combination of both.  I noticed a drastic change in the size of mature perch in Sloans Lake in Cheyenne between last season, where the female perch averaged 8" and this year where they average about 5".  They are full of eggs.  Males have always been smaller.  There is speculation of overharvest, but if my understanding is correct, it would seem the opposite would be occurring - fewer but larger perch.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Jan 10, 2012, 08:45 PM
trade with utah for tigers!!!  and get some some more channel cats in this state!
   you want to catch some channel cats fish the bighorn river from thermop on down.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 10, 2012, 09:10 PM
When were perch stocked into Granite and Crystal Reservoirs?  Thanks.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: benwyo on Jan 10, 2012, 09:18 PM
When were perch stocked into Granite and Crystal Reservoirs?  Thanks.

I have lived here for 28 years now and they where there back them. Crystal used to have lots more and better size. North Crow was the same, but lots of little one back in early 80's, my wife did pull one out 13 1/4 inches....
Benwyo.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 11, 2012, 09:13 PM
What happened to the perch in N. Crow?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 12, 2012, 09:29 AM
What causes a fish population to become stunted?  I always thought it was lack of food availability - either a crash in the food base or population explosion of fish, or a combination of both.  I noticed a drastic change in the size of mature perch in Sloans Lake in Cheyenne between last season, where the female perch averaged 8" and this year where they average about 5".  They are full of eggs.  Males have always been smaller.  There is speculation of overharvest, but if my understanding is correct, it would seem the opposite would be occurring - fewer but larger perch.
While I don't know anything about Sloans in Cheyenne, you have pretty muched nailed it as far as why fish become stunted. In Healy Reservoir's case, perch came in from an upstream source, no predators originally in Healy so the perch grew very fast. With perfect spawning conditions and no predators it didn't take long for an explosion of fish. Once you get a large population, food generally becomes a limiting factor. With limited food you get smaller fish. Fish will continue to spawn, but because of a lack of food, they are smaller in size when reaching sexual maturity (smaller but likely of same age). This cycle continues until predators are introduced, angler harvest increases, or disease takes over.

If over-harvested, it can sometimes appear to be the same thing. Whereas there are fewer fish, so in order to keep the population in existence, fish will often reach sexual maturity at a younger age.  Sampling and comparisons of catch rates (in nets) between years would be needed in order to figure out what's going on for sure. Perch populations can be over-harvested, especially in waters where there is slow growth. This happens on occassion in the upper midwest where limits generally aren't as liberal and in some cases there are minimum length limits on perch.
Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Jan 12, 2012, 11:20 PM
Question who is the best person to talk to about putting on a Ice tournament circit?  I don't have a clue how to start this but I'm willing to learn.  In the regulations it stats that you have to register with G&F.  I have not done any research yet but hopfully you can help me bypass a lot of time by giving me a contact to start looking into a possibility of getting a tournament list started.  Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Jan 13, 2012, 09:28 AM
Question who is the best person to talk to about putting on a Ice tournament circit?  I don't have a clue how to start this but I'm willing to learn.  In the regulations it stats that you have to register with G&F.  I have not done any research yet but hopfully you can help me bypass a lot of time by giving me a contact to start looking into a possibility of getting a tournament list started.  Thanks
I think the best thing to do is go into your local/regional G&F office and tell them what you would like to do. They should be able to point you in the right direction. Good luck.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyofly99 on Jan 17, 2012, 06:43 PM
Do you G&F guys know what all species are in Bryan Stock Trail Pond? When was the last time it was stocked? Is it worth fishing? Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Jan 24, 2012, 05:32 PM
What are the little white bugs floating around in our camera lenses. Like the ones in TeamLighting video and our cameras. Shrimp, Scuds, Bugs? If you can't be specific give me a couple of choices please.  Location Keyhole
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tjohn on Jan 25, 2012, 06:41 PM
What species are in Festo Lake in Wheatland, Wy. The regs book says there is a limit on Bass?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: lowrygofish on Jan 25, 2012, 09:49 PM
What species are in Festo Lake in Wheatland, Wy. The regs book says there is a limit on Bass?

Largemouth bass were stocked into it in 2010 and bluegill in 2011.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tjohn on Jan 26, 2012, 08:06 AM
thanks lowrygofish, always wondered if the did anything after they cleaned er up
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: HighBrew on Jan 29, 2012, 08:12 PM
Why is G&F stocking fish in lakes where they cannot reproduce. E.g.  rainbows in granite. Just doesn't seem logical.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Jan 29, 2012, 09:19 PM
Why is G&F stocking fish in lakes where they cannot reproduce. E.g.  rainbows in granite. Just doesn't seem logical.

What is illogical about stocking fish to provide angling opportunities???

HighBrew - you will have to explain that one!!

ClearCreek
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Jan 29, 2012, 10:04 PM
Is there any info on the G&F website on what species and quantity is stocked in what lakes?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Jan 30, 2012, 10:43 AM
Is there any info on the G&F website on what species and quantity is stocked in what lakes?
All I did is go to the G&F office in lander and talk to one of the biologists. He gave me everything I wanted/needed on the lakes around here. Good luck!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 31, 2012, 05:28 PM
I am wondering about the possibility of lake trout in Walker Jenkins. From what I have read, the lake is very deep, and the water is fairly cold year round. Seems like it would be a perfect place for them. Also, I think I read years ago that there were kokes in it, are there still any?
Thanks,
307_BOWS

307_BOWS,

Thanks for your interest in Walker Jenkins, it is truly a unique fishery in the middle of the Shirley Basin. Kokanee were stocked in 1996 and 1997, due to the unproductive nature of this deep lake, there was a lack of zooplankton for the kokanee to feed on and they never did well so stocking was ceased and they are no longer present. Rainbow trout have been the predominant species stocked into Walker Jenkins and they are able to find enough food to grow to a decent size. We started stocking a slighlty larger sized trout in 2009 to see if we could get a larger max. length and cutthroat were stocked for the first time in 2011 to provide diversity. Walker Jenkins is a deep reservoir, but it currently lacks abundant numbers of other forage fish lake trout to where they would not key in on the stocked trout.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 31, 2012, 05:33 PM
does Wyoming still stock tiger muskies in any waters if not way

WYreellifeguy,

At least in the Laramie Region, tiger musky were last stocked into Festo Lake near Wheatland in 2004, but unfortunetly they have since disappear from the lake due to increased summer temps during the drought. It has gotten increasingly diffucult to obtain fish from other states to due disease and AIS concerns. The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew has requested tiger muskies from our culture section to be stocked into Grayrocks Reservoir in 2013, which used to produce state record tiger muskies. Our culture section will work hard to obtain these fish from a clean source. Keep in touch to find out if they were stocked.

Take care,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 31, 2012, 05:50 PM
What is the perch situation in Lake Hattie.  I know a few years back when the lake was smaller they were a great target fish for ice fishing.  I was wondering what if anything the Game and Fish knows about this population of fish.  And can we expect their numbers to increase with the new size of the lake?

Jpearce1fly,

As of 2009, yellow perch were doing very well and of course are a favorite target of ice anglers. Over 82% of yellow perch caught in our sampling gear were greater than 8”.  Two strong year classes in 2003 and 2004 contributed to the strong yellow perch fishery in 2006 and 2007.  It is possible the strong 2004-year class created an overabundance of yellow perch ≥ 8 and ≤ 9 inches, which was evident in the 2007, 2008, and 2009 samples.  The consecutive strong yellow perch year-classes in 2003 and 2004 may be competing for the same food resources, but over time the weaker year-classes that follow will help reduce this competition.  A strong yellow perch year-class was expected in 2010, due to the increased spawning habitat made available to yellow perch in 2009. 2010 sampling indicated abundant yellow perch and individuals near 14 inches were fairly common in our sampling in 2010. However, this abundance of yellow perch did not translate into good perch fishing as the full reservoir might have made fishing for YEP more difficult. Sampling in 2011 recorded a large decrease in the numbers of yellow perch in our sampling gear compared to previous years. It is unclear if the reduced numbers is a reflection of the increase in the sampling area due to a fuller reservoir or fewer yellow perch in the lake. We will continue to monitor this important part of the Lake Hattie fishery. Yellow perch populations do go through boom and bust cycles and it looks like the population might be on a down turn, but with the fuller reservoir this population might be able to rebound better.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Jan 31, 2012, 07:21 PM
WGFDFishBioLaramie, appreciate your time and detail in answering some questions here at the Shanty! Hope this relationship between G&F and the Shanty continues far into the future. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MountainMan on Jan 31, 2012, 08:00 PM
Agreed! Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 13tjohns on Feb 02, 2012, 05:55 PM
Thanks for the good info Wyo G&F. I was wondering if you had ever thought about stocking northern pike into any of the reservoirs around wheatland, like Wheatland Res1, rock lake, or grayrocks?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Feb 07, 2012, 12:20 AM

....Yellow perch populations do go through boom and bust cycles and it looks like the population might be on a down turn, but with the fuller reservoir this population might be able to rebound better....

WGFDFishBioLaramie


What are some of the major contributing factors to perch boom and bust cycles?  Are busts caused by low water?

To what extent do the large trout in Hattie (browns and cutts in particular) feed on adult perch and perch fry? 

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bsrkoacar on Feb 15, 2012, 07:29 PM
Wyo G&F, just out of curiosity, do Crystal and Granite provide ideal spawning habitats for the lake trout?  And do you think you will continue to stock these lakes with adult lakers in the future?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Feb 16, 2012, 11:04 PM
G&F:  There has been a thread asking why we can't transport minnows across Wyoming and Montana boarder.  Why can't we?  With reservoirs that cross on water and reservoirs that are just a couple of miles off the boarder.  If you read the thread there are some good points made and I was wondering if there is any talk about this topic?  Thank you
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bbkyle35 on Feb 19, 2012, 01:10 AM
Crystal and Granite are mainly put and take fisheries. In other words, the game and fish put fish in Crystal and Granite for fisherman to catch and not for reproducing.
The warden told me that they put the browns and lakers in thsir to take rhe perch numbers down so they wouldnt stunt
Both are right. Granite will never be a lake trout fishery, it's just not right for them. Most likely the brood lakers had two options: kill them and throw them away, or try to get some sort of use out of them.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MountainMan on Feb 20, 2012, 11:42 AM
Note to members- Thanks for keeping the chit chat and conversations on this thread to a minimum! It has really made it easier for G&F to filter questions. One more request; I know many members are taking it upon themselves to be helpful and answer questions they have answers to. We do appreciate these responses, but please leave the board clear for G&F responses only. Feel free to p.m. any helpful feedback to the member. Again, by allowing for only G&F responses the thread will be easier for G&F employees to shuffle through during their limited time spent on the site. This message is by request. Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishsqueezer on Feb 24, 2012, 05:06 PM
G&F:  There has been a thread asking why we can't transport minnows across Wyoming and Montana boarder.  Why can't we?  With reservoirs that cross on water and reservoirs that are just a couple of miles off the boarder.  If you read the thread there are some good points made and I was wondering if there is any talk about this topic?  Thank you

The un-intentional introduction of non-native species and the spread of invasive species are likely the two greatest threats to aquatic resources right now, and unfortunately, in practically every case they are human caused.  Within the border of our state, we have a pretty good handle on some of the causes of these introductions, one of them being live baitfish.  Statutes and regulations generally don't cross state lines and neither does our ability to regulate the status (i.e. species, parasite, disease, etc.) of those sources.  Basically, the line has to be drawn somewhere, and political boundaries, however arbitrary they may seem, are often where the line is drawn. 
I did spend some time reading through all of your posts and appreciate your perspectives, it is always going to be a subject of interest and contention, but something we should continue discussing. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SLAYERFISH on Mar 05, 2012, 08:41 AM
Why the new Reg allowing 6 trout any size vs. the 1 over 20"?  Seems to me if it ain't broken don't fix it?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Mar 09, 2012, 08:56 AM
Why the new Reg allowing 6 trout any size vs. the 1 over 20"?  Seems to me if it ain't broken don't fix it?
Good question. The biggest reason for the change was the fact that most lakes and reservoirs throughout the state are stocked. Most of these lakes and reservoirs are fairly productive, allowing these stocked fish to grow quickly, often to the 20" and above. In many reservoirs, anglers who want to harvest fish often have difficulty finding fish under the 20" mark to harvest. Since these waters are stocked annually anyway and the fact that most trout in reservoirs do not spawn successfully, we felt "why should we limit harvest for those who want to harvest"?.

Another note, most if not all of these lakes and reservoirs allow bait and by not allowing anglers to keep certain sized fish, there was likely high hooking mortality from anglers releasing a 20" plus trout when they already had their one fish over 20".  I guarantee that all of these waters will be monitored closely and if the regulations need to be changed for a certain water we can do it.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 12, 2012, 03:30 PM
When were perch stocked into Granite and Crystal Reservoirs?  Thanks.

GemCitySlayer,

I just got done looking through our archives of fish stocking records and fish sampling for Granite Reservoir. I could not find the exact date that perch were stocked into Granite Reservoir, but did find mention of them in some sampling records from 1946, 1947, and 1948. I'm not sure if Game and Fish originally stocked perch into Granite Reservoir or if someone else did. I did find mention in an old WGFD report that the development of a fishery at Granite and Crystal reservoirs was discouraged until about 1956, due to fluctuating water levels. The report I found said that once additional water was secured for these reservoirs that it was decided to treat both reservoirs to kill off the undesirable fish, which the report stated were perch and suckers. We do have good stocking records after 1956, but I found no mention of perch, so either the treatment was not entirely successful or they were illegally introduced after the treatment.

Hope that helps,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 12, 2012, 03:43 PM
Is there any chance tiger trout could be stocked in Curt Gowdy, Granite and Crystal Reservoirs?  I think these would be a nice addition to these lakes.

GemCitySlayer,

Tiger trout are now being produced in one of our Game and Fish Department's hatcheries. Tiger trout are a good fish to use in situations where there is an overabundance of certain species of fish, these can be game fish or nongame fish. Since they are sterile their numbers can be controlled. We currently stock brown trout into Granite and Crystal reservoirs to control the overabundance of perch and suckers. Since suitable spawning habitat is somewhat limited, their numbers can also be controlled. We are continually evaluating the success of each fish species we stock, if in the future tiger trout are deemed a suitable species to stock it is something we will look into for Granite or Crystal, or any water body within our management region.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 12, 2012, 03:46 PM
What species are in Festo Lake in Wheatland, Wy. The regs book says there is a limit on Bass?

tjohn,

Stocking was ceased at Festo Lake after 2006, due to low water levels. Since some russian olive treatments and good water years, we started stocking Festo Lake again in 2010. In 2010 3,600 largemouth bass and 6,370 bluegill were stocked. In 2011 5,600 largemouth bass and 11,100 bluegill were stocked.  Both species in 2010 and 2011 were stocked at about 2 inches in length.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 12, 2012, 03:50 PM
Thanks for the good info Wyo G&F. I was wondering if you had ever thought about stocking northern pike into any of the reservoirs around wheatland, like Wheatland Res1, rock lake, or grayrocks?

13tjohns,

For the Laramie Region, when available, we like to stock tiger musky, since they are a sterile species and their numbers can be controled. Tiger musky were last stocked into Festo Lake near Wheatland in 2004, but unfortunetly they have since disappear from the lake due to increased summer temps during the drought. It has gotten increasingly diffucult to obtain fish from other states to due disease and AIS concerns. The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew has requested tiger muskies from our culture section to be stocked into Grayrocks Reservoir in 2013, which used to produce state record tiger muskies. Our culture section will work hard to obtain these fish from a clean source. Keep in touch to find out if they were stocked.

Take care,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 12, 2012, 03:55 PM
Wyo G&F, just out of curiosity, do Crystal and Granite provide ideal spawning habitats for the lake trout?  And do you think you will continue to stock these lakes with adult lakers in the future?

bsrkoacar,

Lake trout were stocked into both of these lakes in 1994, but did not successfully reproduce in either of the reservoirs. Now that doesn’t mean it couldn’t happen. Lake trout are not available to be stocked on an annual basis. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department gets the lake trout from the US Fish and Wildlife Service hatchery in Saratoga, WY. These large lake trout are their brood fish used for spawning, their eggs are then used in places were they are trying to maintain lake trout populations, such as in the Great Lakes. Every so often they rotate out their brood fish, when this occurs the brood fish being replaced are made available to the WGFD to stock.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Mar 12, 2012, 10:08 PM
I'll start a fresh question:

In previous years the game and fish made an effort to stock some flathead catfish into the North Platte.  We all know most of them are gone ( if not all of them! ).

I was just curious if the G/F has considered trying to introduce them again in Wyoming since then.  In my mind, Grayrocks reservoir would be an ideal place to try and get a flathead population established.  There are eyes, crappie, catfish, perch, drum and smallmouth bass in Grayrocks... All of which would make a good food source for flatheads.  Grayrocks is also lower in elevation and summertime temps hit 95-100 degrees. 

Could flatheads prosper in Grayrocks?  Even if they maxed out at 15lbs in there I think anglers would drive many miles for the chance to catch flatheads.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Nov 12, 2012, 01:18 PM
Tiger Musky stocking question.  With the minimum length requirement of 30 inches what is the approximate time frame F&G thinks it will take before the ones which were stocked will be a length where they can be kept?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Nov 12, 2012, 01:24 PM
I have always wondered what fish where going to be stocked in to Ocean lake, I know previously there were largemouth bass, blue gill, crappie, trout, perch and walleye, but all I see left are walleye, perch, and crappie.  Are there any plans to stock anything else, I know trout are out because the water temperature gets to warm for them to survive, personally I would like to see catfish and largemouth or possible smallmouth bass introduced into the lake.  Or is the G&F having it as a walleye lake only.  Thanks.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Nov 15, 2012, 10:00 AM
Tiger Musky stocking question.  With the minimum length requirement of 30 inches what is the approximate time frame F&G thinks it will take before the ones which were stocked will be a length where they can be kept?
Good question Jopes. With pike and tiger musky being an "ambush" or "lie and wait" predator, it is very difficult for us to get adequate samples for age and growth analysis. It has been my goal to try to collect more samples of northern in Keyhole, but those buggers are hard to catch. If I had to make an educated guess. For a northern or tiger musky to reach 30 inches it would likely take 4 to 5 years. Sooner with good forage, longer with not so good of forage. In Healy Reservoir and all of those smaller perch and white suckers, I would bet that those tiger musky will put on growth pretty quickly.

Good question. I will keep you guys updated as we collect more samples for age and growth analysis.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Nov 16, 2012, 10:01 PM
WY game and fish-

What are the line limit regualtions on Dinwoody Lake on the reservation? Is it the same for reservation members as non-native fishermen?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dfauverii on Nov 16, 2012, 10:56 PM
What kind of fish are actually in cameawait (bass lake)?  I keep reading that there are trout, ling, bass of course, perch, crappie, bluegill, and sunfish.  I would just like to know for sure what is actually in there.  How about sand mesa?  Is there good access to that and what kind of fish are in there and is it worth going to? Thanks alot. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyreellifeguy on Nov 17, 2012, 01:36 PM
I have always wondered what fish where going to be stocked in to Ocean lake, I know previously there were largemouth bass, blue gill, crappie, trout, perch and walleye, but all I see left are walleye, perch, and crappie.  Are there any plans to stock anything else, I know trout are out because the water temperature gets to warm for them to survive, personally I would like to see catfish and largemouth or possible smallmouth bass introduced into the lake.  Or is the G&F having it as a walleye lake only.  Thanks.
                 I would like to know the info on this as well
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Nov 17, 2012, 08:27 PM
What kind of bass are in Glendo?  Largemouth or Spotted? 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Nov 19, 2012, 08:40 AM
Note to members- Thanks for keeping the chit chat and conversations on this thread to a minimum! It has really made it easier for G&F to filter questions. One more request; I know many members are taking it upon themselves to be helpful and answer questions they have answers to. We do appreciate these responses, but please leave the board clear for G&F responses only. Feel free to p.m. any helpful feedback to the member. Again, by allowing for only G&F responses the thread will be easier for G&F employees to shuffle through during their limited time spent on the site. This message is by request. Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Nov 24, 2012, 09:43 PM
When fish cull surveys are done and the use of gill nets are used, where does all the dead fish go to?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Nov 28, 2012, 02:20 PM
Has the game and fish been stocking catfish in Glendo and Grayrocks this year or last?  If I remember right they quit stocking them for awhile was just curious if it had continued.

If someone else knows the answer go ahead and PM me I know a lot of you guys are Glendo diehards.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 03, 2013, 04:07 PM
I have always wondered what fish where going to be stocked in to Ocean lake, I know previously there were largemouth bass, blue gill, crappie, trout, perch and walleye, but all I see left are walleye, perch, and crappie.  Are there any plans to stock anything else, I know trout are out because the water temperature gets to warm for them to survive, personally I would like to see catfish and largemouth or possible smallmouth bass introduced into the lake.  Or is the G&F having it as a walleye lake only.  Thanks.

Currently the only fish stocked into Ocean Lake are walleye.  360,000 fingerling are requested each year, and for the most part that is what has been stocked on an annual basis.  We stock walleye because they are unable to naturally reproduce in the lake.  Bluegill, crappie, and yellow perch all maintain fluctuating population levels through natural reproduction.  Ocean Lake contained a tremendous largemouth bass fishery in the past, but that was under different habitat conditions.  During the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s when the lake was much clearer and less silt-laden, bass and crappie thrived.  Since they are predators that forage mostly by sight, poor water clarity during the past 30+ years has caused these fisheries to decline.  We have considered introduction of catfish as they are more suited to the turbid conditions in the lake.  However, it must be understood that the introduction of another competing predator in the lake may be to the detriment of existiing fisheries, such as walley and perch. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 03, 2013, 04:24 PM
What kind of fish are actually in cameawait (bass lake)?  I keep reading that there are trout, ling, bass of course, perch, crappie, bluegill, and sunfish.  I would just like to know for sure what is actually in there.  How about sand mesa?  Is there good access to that and what kind of fish are in there and is it worth going to? Thanks alot.

Lake Cameahwait is managed mainly as a largemouth bass fishery.  A few rainbow trout are stocked, but they don't grow or survive well do to poor food availability.  Lack of algae and zooplankton - the reason that the lake is so clear - means that the lake is not very productive for planktivorious fish such as rainbow trout and most young fish.  There are very few ling, and no crappie that we are aware of.  Bluegill were introduced to the lake in 2012, with plans for additional stocking in 2013 and 2014.  Bluegills, if they become established, may provide additional foarage for the bass as well as an added opportunity for anglers.  We are in the process of determining the feasibility of enhancing the productivity of the lake.  This may be through the addition of more nutrient-rich water via currently abandoned irrigation ditches, control of cattails in the inflow area (cattails strip nutrients from the water before it can reach the lake), or methods to release nutrients from the sediments.  If successful, this could go a long way to improving the fisheries potential of the lake.
Sand Mesa no longer has an adequate supply of water during the winter months to support sport fish.  Unfortunately we have had to abandon efforts to maintain the Sand Mesa ponds for fishing.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Jan 03, 2013, 04:31 PM
Thanks for the reply, that is great information on the catfish, would really like to see some in there but understand about the competition for the forage in there and that the crappie and perch numbers might be impacted.  Just thought that the more turbid the water the easier the bait fish were able to hide, but guess the predatory fish are able to hunt in all kinds of water, and with not a lot of structure or weeds for the bait to hide in easier for the bigger ones to find and eat them.  Thanks again for the information, and also glad to see the introduction of blue gill into bass lake, cannot wait to catch a few of them.

One last question is there any bait fish put into Ocean lake, or is the shiners in the lake from natural reproduction in the canal and other waters that dump into Ocean?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 03, 2013, 04:33 PM
WY game and fish-

What are the line limit regualtions on Dinwoody Lake on the reservation? Is it the same for reservation members as non-native fishermen?

I will attempt to answer this question, but be aware that this water is not under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and for further information I encourage readers to contact the Tribal Fish and Game.  Regulations differ for tribal members compared to non-tribal members.  Tribal members have no line or creel limits.  For non-tribal members the season at Dinwoody runs from January1 through September 30.  For ice fishing at Dinwoody, six lines are permitted with no more than one hook per line.  Each line shall bear the name of the angler.  During open water fishing, only two lines are permitted.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Jan 03, 2013, 04:40 PM
Thanks for the reply, that is great information on the catfish, would really like to see some in there but understand about the competition for the forage in there and that the crappie and perch numbers might be impacted.  Just thought that the more turbid the water the easier the bait fish were able to hide, but guess the predatory fish are able to hunt in all kinds of water, and with not a lot of structure or weeds for the bait to hide in easier for the bigger ones to find and eat them.  Thanks again for the information, and also glad to see the introduction of blue gill into bass lake, cannot wait to catch a few of them.

One last question is there any bait fish put into Ocean lake, or is the shiners in the lake from natural reproduction in the canal and other waters that dump into Ocean?

The emerald shiners and spottail shiners were introduced to Ocean Lake by the G&F many years ago and have become very well established.  Foarage availability is usually quite good at the lake.  The problem for many of the predators is having clear enough water so that they can effectively see and capture the forage.   We continue to work with various other organizations and agencies to investigate solutions to the turbidity problems at the lake, but unfortunately it is a problem with no easy remedies.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dfauverii on Jan 03, 2013, 06:47 PM
  Thanks for all the great info.  Here's another question for you when you get a chance.  Do you know what's going on with Wardell?  The little walleye in harrington have been good.  There used to be a bunch in wardell as well.  You hardly see anyone on wardell.  Just wondering if there's something to that.  Also i was wondering if you are stocking wardell as you are harrington.  Just wondering if maybe i'm driving past the lake i should be at. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Jan 04, 2013, 01:38 AM
Question. Gillette fishing lake/ pond. The only one that puts the willies in me. We got in classified as warm body water now, so this mean there is a chance of bass, crappie, perch, minnows of another mother; Don't now what species? To be introduced into the lake/pond. So with this stated what fish do you see in the future as a good habitint in the lake. As for trout I just hope we as the public realize it not our best interest spending money on a unproductive species. What say you. G&F? 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 04, 2013, 10:44 AM
Question. Gillette fishing lake/ pond. The only one that puts the willies in me. We got in classified as warm body water now, so this mean there is a chance of bass, crappie, perch, minnows of another mother; Don't now what species? To be introduced into the lake/pond. So with this stated what fish do you see in the future as a good habitint in the lake. As for trout I just hope we as the public realize it not our best interest spending money on a unproductive species. What say you. G&F?
Gillette Fishing Lake was re-classified as a warm water fishery to help the City meet some water quality standards that were not realistic to meet.  The only reason it was previously classified as a cold water fishery was the GF stocked trout in the spring and fall when water temperatures allowed them to survive for a while.  The City of Gillette has plans to significantly deepen Gillette Fishing Lake in the near future (a continuation of the project that started in 2012 to create some sediment traps above the reservoir).  If this happens, for now GF plans to continue to stock trout in the spring and fall to provide a trout fishery where very few exist.  If the dredging does not occur, GF will need to consider transplanting in likely largemouth bass and sunfish.
 Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Jan 04, 2013, 11:38 AM
I will attempt to answer this question, but be aware that this water is not under the jurisdiction of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and for further information I encourage readers to contact the Tribal Fish and Game.  Regulations differ for tribal members compared to non-tribal members.  Tribal members have no line or creel limits.  For non-tribal members the season at Dinwoody runs from January1 through September 30.  For ice fishing at Dinwoody, six lines are permitted with no more than one hook per line.  Each line shall bear the name of the angler.  During open water fishing, only two lines are permitted.

Thanks for your response. We appreciate you taking the time to be an active member of this message board.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: silvereyez13 on Jan 04, 2013, 12:20 PM
Hello! Why is there not more of a variety if species in Pathfinder? Like perch, sauger, crappie, etc.? Just a curiosity? I really like to spend open and hard water time out there,but think it would be even better to have a variety! Thanks in advance!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gravy_t on Jan 07, 2013, 01:57 AM
Anyone know where the aerators in Meeboer and Gelatt (plains lakes area by laramie) are? Obviously I can't expect and exact spot....but I'd feel more comfortable knowing what parts of the lake they were placed. Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 08, 2013, 03:51 PM
Anyone know where the aerators in Meeboer and Gelatt (plains lakes area by laramie) are? Obviously I can't expect and exact spot....but I'd feel more comfortable knowing what parts of the lake they were placed. Thanks!

gravy_t,

Here are the UTM coordinates for the aerators at Meeboer (NAD27) 13T 431105E 4562546N, We just finished breaking open a semi-circle hole today at Meeboer that should not freeze up. The large chunks of ice on the ice should help indicate were it is located as well. The UTM coordinates for the aerators at Gelatt are (NAD27) 13T 429887E 4565311N, we got the parts needed to fix the aerator at Gelatt and as of today it is operating and there is a small hole we broke open with an orange float in it. Hopefully it stays windy!

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gravy_t on Jan 08, 2013, 06:40 PM
Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: silvereyez13 on Jan 16, 2013, 09:21 AM
Hello! Why is there not more of a variety if species in Pathfinder? Like perch, sauger, crappie, etc.? Just a curiosity? I really like to spend open and hard water time out there,but think it would be even better to have a variety! Thanks in advance!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Sasumner on Jan 16, 2013, 02:48 PM
Just looking for some clarification. I see where it is legal to use three hooks per line, does that meen I can use three minnows per line, each with one single hook?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 18, 2013, 08:44 AM
Just looking for some clarification. I see where it is legal to use three hooks per line, does that meen I can use three minnows per line, each with one single hook?
Yes you can. We've had some simplification in our regs on this matter. It used to be open water, two rods, three hooks per rod, six hooks total. Ice fishing was the same on waters not under the Special Ice Fishing Provision. Waters under the Special Provision could be up to six rods/tipups with one hook for a total of six hooks (or any combination of rods and hooks for a total of six hooks).  But now, its easy. Three hooks per rod/tipup. So on lakes that fall under the Special Ice Provision, you could technically have six tipups with three hooks per for a total of 18 hooks.

Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Sasumner on Jan 18, 2013, 04:27 PM
Thanks, that's exactly the answer I was looking for!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofire36 on Jan 20, 2013, 02:05 PM
Are the Wyoming golden trout hybrids?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Sasumner on Jan 21, 2013, 02:16 PM
Is commercial fishing or possibly a rewards system a viable option to reduce burbot numbers in the Green River Drainage?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 22, 2013, 08:57 AM
Are the Wyoming golden trout hybrids?
The WGFD does not stock hybrids except splake (brook-lake trout), tiger trout (brown-brook trout), and tiger muskie (muskelunge-northern pike). Rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat, golden and all the others are pure strain fish that we stock. As far as golden trout, the Story Fish Hatchery has the only captive, pure strain, brood stock of golden trout in the world. Pretty darn cool. The WGFD went many years with no golden trout stocking but now with the success of the goldens at Story, we are back in business. With that said, in the wild, there may in fact be some populations with less than 100% genetic integrity/purity. Not exactly sure what fisheries may have hybrids, but it could be possible if rainbow or cutthroat are in the same drainage as golden trout.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: brownb56 on Jan 22, 2013, 04:42 PM
Is any stocking or sampling done on big sandy resevoir?  Also has there ever been any depth charting of the resevoir?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 24, 2013, 11:09 PM
The WGFD does not stock hybrids except splake (brook-lake trout), tiger trout (brown-brook trout), and tiger muskie (muskelunge-northern pike). Rainbow, brown, brook, cutthroat, golden and all the others are pure strain fish that we stock. As far as golden trout, the Story Fish Hatchery has the only captive, pure strain, brood stock of golden trout in the world. Pretty darn cool. The WGFD went many years with no golden trout stocking but now with the success of the goldens at Story, we are back in business. With that said, in the wild, there may in fact be some populations with less than 100% genetic integrity/purity. Not exactly sure what fisheries may have hybrids, but it could be possible if rainbow or cutthroat are in the same drainage as golden trout.

Hope this helps

Any chance we could see some Goldens in Wheatland # 3? ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Jan 28, 2013, 11:57 AM
I don't know if this has been answered or not, But what is Wyoming's opinion on fizzing fish? 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Jan 29, 2013, 06:01 PM
Hello Wyoming game and fish,


I am looking for information on native and wild fresh water shrimp species in WY.

any and all help would be great!
I am just across the Border in sd and trying to find ways to supplemntly feed my trout in some ponds. I know some of your better trout rivers are thick with scuds, but I dont know much about them, and cant find much good info on the internet.
There is some info on ghost shrimp, but none stated that they survive this far north, do you have any in your home state?
Thanks!

You can email me if you like!  [email protected].
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: lipripper1 on Feb 04, 2013, 09:44 PM
Where abouts are the tiger muskies stocked? What's the life span of a tiger muskie? And is there stocking dates for these muskies in Wyoming?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 05, 2013, 08:07 AM
Where abouts are the tiger muskies stocked? What's the life span of a tiger muskie? And is there stocking dates for these muskies in Wyoming?
Tiger muskie have been stocked in several waters in past years. However, the only waters that received tiger muskie this year was Healy Reservoir, LAK Reservoir, and Grayrocks Reservoir.  Prior to 2012, the last stocking of tiger muskie was 2006. Since WGFD does not make this hybrid, we have to rely on other states. This year we received the muskie from Nebraska and Washington. All the muskie were stocked small so it will take a few years before they are of "trophy" or legal size (30inches). Stocking tiger muskie for the future is up in the air at this point. We have the fish requested, but stocking will likely be determined by availability. Tiger muskie are used as a biological control in most cases, (i.e., to thin perch and suckers at Healy and thin suckers and green sunfish at LAK) and don't need to be stocked every year. Muskie can be long lived species although my knowledge of specific age and growth of muskie and pike is lacking. We are hoping to do some aging of northern pike at Keyhole this next summer to understand age and growth a little better.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: lipripper1 on Feb 05, 2013, 10:57 AM
The only reason I ask is that I have always heard that the tigers make it right about seven years. Therefore they reach their peak right around six....stocking dates would determine what size. Thanks for the information and maybe there will be some 40" fish in a few years! There was two state record caught out of  deadmans res. north of Billings Mt and they were caught year six and seven from stocking. As far as I know they have died out since.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: DeadSeaFisher on Feb 07, 2013, 09:15 PM
Interesting....
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MJA on Feb 20, 2013, 01:07 PM
Is there a way to get a variance on the 30 day notice for a fishing contest on Bass Lake for fater son/daughter etc?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLander on Feb 25, 2013, 04:57 PM
A fishing contest application can often be processed in less than 30 days.  The first thing to do is to determine if you actuall need a permit.  AS fishing contest is defined as "an event for catching fish on waters of the state, excluding licensed fishing preserves, where an entry or participation fee is charged and fifty (50) or more adult (18 years of age or older) anglers participate on a given date."  If you don't meet these requirements, a fishing contest permit is not required.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MJA on Feb 26, 2013, 07:42 AM
Thanks for the input.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dfauverii on Feb 28, 2013, 07:36 PM
  I'm gona get into bowfishing this summer.  All i want is to kill some carp.  Nothing else.  Alot of states allow bowfishing them at night with lights.  What would it take to get wyoming on board with this?  It wouldn't hurt to get rid of a few thousand out of every lake, river, pond, and stream.  Are the rules for a bowfishing contest the same as for a regular fishing contest?  That would be a cool thing to do.  Sorry this isn't about ice fishing but since game and fish checks this out i wanted to try anyway. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Mar 01, 2013, 01:18 PM
There is a bowfishing tourney on Ocean lake every year now, talked to the guy who puts it on and he said they are shooting for the free fishing day to have it again this year, which I think is June 1st, waiting for the fliers to come out to send to wyofarmer or mountain man on Myfishfinder.  Cannot wait to hit it again this year, maybe three years in a row, but always just go out to have fun and spend time with family.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Pyro Chuck on Mar 10, 2013, 11:11 PM
Has there ever been Golden Trout stocked in Deep Lake in Med Bow Nat Forest or do you know of any ever having been caught there? I have been told by a few people they have caught them there but all of the research I have done leads me to ask you folks. I am aware of Bear Lake, and the Shelf lakes but other than that I am curious as I don't want to spend my time on a lake fishing for a fish that isn't there.

Thanks,
Chuck
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 11, 2013, 10:59 AM
Dear Pyro Chuck,

Looking back at our historical records, Deep Lake has never been stocked with golden trout. It was first stocked with brook trout in 1935 and brook trout were stocked almost annually up until 1969, when it appeared they were naturally reproducing. Cutthroat trout were stocked in 1945 and 1952 and rainbow trout were stocked once in 1956. Currently, based on our most recent netting, brook trout are the only game fish present. Since 1985, golden trout in the Laramie Region have only been stocked into Shelf Lake #1, Shelf Lake #2, Bear Lake, and <300 once into Lake Owen in 1989. We (the Department) did stock some bigger golden trout (about 8 inches) into Bear Lake last year, so that might be the place to start catching some larger golden's. Good Luck!

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie

Has there ever been Golden Trout stocked in Deep Lake in Med Bow Nat Forest or do you know of any ever having been caught there? I have been told by a few people they have caught them there but all of the research I have done leads me to ask you folks. I am aware of Bear Lake, and the Shelf lakes but other than that I am curious as I don't want to spend my time on a lake fishing for a fish that isn't there.

Thanks,
Chuck

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Pyro Chuck on Mar 12, 2013, 02:19 PM
Hey thanks so much for the info here. I was actually panning a trip to Bear so hopefully we'll get lucky up there.

Thanks again,
Chuck

Dear Pyro Chuck,

Looking back at our historical records, Deep Lake has never been stocked with golden trout. It was first stocked with brook trout in 1935 and brook trout were stocked almost annually up until 1969, when it appeared they were naturally reproducing. Cutthroat trout were stocked in 1945 and 1952 and rainbow trout were stocked once in 1956. Currently, based on our most recent netting, brook trout are the only game fish present. Since 1985, golden trout in the Laramie Region have only been stocked into Shelf Lake #1, Shelf Lake #2, Bear Lake, and <300 once into Lake Owen in 1989. We (the Department) did stock some bigger golden trout (about 8 inches) into Bear Lake last year, so that might be the place to start catching some larger golden's. Good Luck!

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Donerightwyo on Mar 30, 2013, 09:20 PM
Is the WGF going to acquire the black hills power pond in Osage?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Apr 01, 2013, 09:08 AM
Is the WGF going to acquire the black hills power pond in Osage?
We continue to work on that but nothing is complete at this time. We are doing everything we can to aquire this pond for future public use.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Tayreel on Nov 05, 2013, 07:23 PM
I've been on the search for bathymetric maps or anything similar for some of the waters around Sheridan and haven't had a lot of luck. Just curious if you guys might have anything like that or if you know where I might be able to find such a thing?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: eroknroll on Nov 22, 2013, 12:51 PM
Do you have any information on woodruff narrows reservior?   I can't seem to find anything about it.   Is it fishable?   Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Fishboy on Dec 08, 2013, 02:20 PM
I was wondering if there's anything that can be done about minnows for bait across state lines. Specifically the anglers in the northern part of Wyoming who would like to fish live bait in the Tongue River Reservoir. I live in buffalo wy. Is there anything that I can do, or that can be done to enable me to use live bait 40 miles north in Montana without having to drive to the nearest baitshop (billings?) then back again to the reservoir, then discarding all before I go home?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYOiceman on Dec 11, 2013, 07:47 AM
Is it legal for registered tribe members to hunt non reservation land with a tribe liscense?
I ran into a guy down on the river by Kinnear that was hunting in area 170 for deer, but he did not have the liscense for area 157/170 like I did. He had a reservation liscense, and said that it is ok for him to hunt the adjoining private land.
He was not on reservation land.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: CVOGlide2010 on Dec 12, 2013, 10:32 AM
I am with you fishboy! Wyo and Mont figured out a way to get around the invasive species thing on boats and water craft. Even have done some education on whirling disease, so why can't they get together and figure out something on the live minnows. In Wyo I do believe that flathead minnows are the only live minnow allowed. I think in Mont that there are other varieties that are sold besides flathead minnows so I do not see a problem in using minnows purchased in Wyoming to be used on the Tongue River Res. Come on people do something please!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: theo9805 on Dec 12, 2013, 01:27 PM
Montana has a thing for out of state leech dealers to get licensed to sell to people bringing leeches into the state, and requiring those bringing leeches in to show a receipt from the licensed dealer. Would it be that hard for them to do the same for minnows?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Dec 12, 2013, 10:44 PM
I think they have good reasons for the laws but it is definitely frustrating to a fisherman who relies on bait. 

If there was no concerns this would be an easy choice for them they would allow any and all bait and it would be no problem.  The truth is with bait there are often a lot of problems when people don't follow the rules.  Google ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 13, 2013, 10:05 AM
I was wondering if there's anything that can be done about minnows for bait across state lines. Specifically the anglers in the northern part of Wyoming who would like to fish live bait in the Tongue River Reservoir. I live in buffalo wy. Is there anything that I can do, or that can be done to enable me to use live bait 40 miles north in Montana without having to drive to the nearest baitshop (billings?) then back again to the reservoir, then discarding all before I go home?
Unfortunately there is nothing we can do at this time. I understand the frustration from anglers on this issue. Wyoming's water is going into a Montana reservoir, so what's the big issue if Wyoming statewide certified minnows are used at TRR? As the post from gemcityslayer mentioned, there are numerous issues with live bait. Most anglers would follow the rules, but a few bad apples may not. In this day and age of illegal or accidental introductions the only way to prevent such a mishap is to not allow minnows to go across statelines. WGFD has been in contact with MTFWP about working something out. I'm optimistic that someday we will be able to do so, but for now, no minnows can go from WY to MT or vice/versa.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Benjfire on Dec 13, 2013, 04:36 PM
You can use minnows on the Montana portion of Bighorn Lake with minnows from the same drainage in Wyoming. All you need is a free permit from the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. I've been doing this for years now. Why can't they do the same for the Tongue?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gsawyer on Dec 16, 2013, 02:51 PM
Is it true they are changing the regulations on Hattie so you can use 6 lines? I understand fishing success on the lake is low but changing it to 6 lines with a 6 fish limit I feel will make the overall fish size smaller. With the overabundance of food in that lake why not treat it as a trophy trout fishery? Artificial flies and lures only maybe a slot limit of no fish between 16 to 20 inches can be kept and 2 trout limit? I think the size of the fish in the lake would increase making it a place people would come to from miles away at a chance to catch a monster brown or rainbow trout over 10 pounds. People will not be as excited to fish a lake with the extreme wind and weather as Hattie has without the abundance of very large fish.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: eve21 on Dec 16, 2013, 10:50 PM
Looking for some new adventure options and saw a post about Lake Trout being in West Tensleep Lake up by Meadowlark.  Is there any truth to this and if so, are they very few and far between or is the population good enough to where a guy has a fighting chance of catching some?  Also, do any other lakes up in that area have them as well?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Fishboy on Dec 17, 2013, 11:44 PM
Unfortunately there is nothing we can do at this time. I understand the frustration from anglers on this issue. Wyoming's water is going into a Montana reservoir, so what's the big issue if Wyoming statewide certified minnows are used at TRR? As the post from gemcityslayer mentioned, there are numerous issues with live bait. Most anglers would follow the rules, but a few bad apples may not. In this day and age of illegal or accidental introductions the only way to prevent such a mishap is to not allow minnows to go across statelines. WGFD has been in contact with MTFWP about working something out. I'm optimistic that someday we will be able to do so, but for now, no minnows can go from WY to MT or vice/versa.

Hope this helps

Thank you for your response. If I may trouble you some more please, who should I direct my frustrations at in this matter to try and enact change? I think a lot of anglers would be on board with signing some kind of petition to get states to co-operate. Why not cross state licenses?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 18, 2013, 04:32 PM
Looking for some new adventure options and saw a post about Lake Trout being in West Tensleep Lake up by Meadowlark.  Is there any truth to this and if so, are they very few and far between or is the population good enough to where a guy has a fighting chance of catching some?  Also, do any other lakes up in that area have them as well?
West Tensleep Lake is on the Cody side of the Bighorns, but according to our database, there are not lake trout in West Tensleep Lake (only brook, brown, and rainbow). On the Sheridan side, and accessible in the winter by snow mobile are Twin Lakes Reservoir, Park Reservoir, and Kearny Reservoir. Both Kearny and Twin are chuck full of lakers, with some decent fish too but most around that 16 to 20" range. Park Reservoir has a few but they may be tough to find. We will be stocking more lake trout in 2014 to boost that population.

Not accessible in winter, but still awesome lake trout fisheries are: Firehole #1 and #2, Seven Brothers #1-#7, Geneva, Heart, and Thayer lakes (all in the Cloud Peak Wilderness).

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: park546 on Dec 19, 2013, 08:15 PM
Just heard that tickets are being issued for using underwater cameras.  Any truth to this?  I understand it is because of the light.  I read the regulations and it seems that you could interpret the law that way.  I seriously doubt that when that law was written it had anything to do with lights of this nature.  Please advise.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 307fish on Dec 24, 2013, 01:46 PM
Wanted to say Thanks to WY G&F for promoting so many youth fishing and hunting specific opportunities.  My son is 10 and he completed his CutSlam at 8 yrs of age - since then we have found out about the Youth Fishing Challenge and he has already gotten his Master Angler certificate.... we just got back from fishing Ocean and Bass lake's where he caught a perch to add to his list and goal of completing all of the Youth Challenges.  The Youth Challenge of course provides a goal for the kids but more then anything has given our family countless memories to share in the outdoors.   I would encourage any other families to take advantage of this great opportunity G&F has provided.  Nevin has all his posters framed in his room.... proud son and parents indeed!  thanks again.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyojoker307 on Dec 26, 2013, 02:38 PM
Saw a post earlier about "shrimp" falling off an anglers hook. Is it legal to use raw shrimp as bait in Wyoming? Any shrimp like store bought not from a bait shop?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: austmoss on Dec 27, 2013, 08:47 PM
Has there been a change the last two years in how west newton lake in Cody has been stocked?  Historically I have always caught a bunch of cutts in the lake although they were quite small.  The last two years I have been averaging much larger fish but the count seems to be less.

Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyice on Dec 28, 2013, 09:01 PM
I have heard that trout have been stocked in Wheatland #3 over the past few years. Is this true?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 30, 2013, 12:28 PM
I have heard that trout have been stocked in Wheatland #3 over the past few years. Is this true?

Dear wyice,

Since refilling in 2009, Wheatland #3 has been stocked annually, from 2009 through 2012 the size of fish stocked ranged from 2 inches to 8 inches, but a majority stocked in that time period were smaller fish in the 3-5 inch range. 2009 - 265,397 trout stocked; 2010 - 176,412; 2011 - 145,117; 2012 - 264,142; 2013 - 54,229 (all of these were 7-inch fish). From 2009 through 2012 the Game and Fish, Fish Culture Section did an outstanding job finding extra fish within their system to stock into #3. 2013 represented the first year of a normal fish stocking schedule, which should be around 70,000 7-inch RBT. The reservoir is starting to decrease again, stocking will continue until it is deemed the stocked fish will no longer survive. Lots of different trout species were stocked from 2009 through 2013, these include brown trout, Snake River cutthroat, Yellowstone River cutthroat, Bear River cutthroat, Colorado River cutthroat, and rainbow trout. 

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Dirty P on Dec 30, 2013, 04:48 PM
Dear wyice,

Since refilling in 2009, Wheatland #3 has been stocked annually, from 2009 through 2012 the size of fish stocked ranged from 2 inches to 8 inches, but a majority stocked in that time period were smaller fish in the 3-5 inch range. 2009 - 265,397 trout stocked; 2010 - 176,412; 2011 - 145,117; 2012 - 264,142; 2013 - 54,229 (all of these were 7-inch fish). From 2009 through 2012 the Game and Fish, Fish Culture Section did an outstanding job finding extra fish within their system to stock into #3. 2013 represented the first year of a normal fish stocking schedule, which should be around 70,000 7-inch RBT. The reservoir is starting to decrease again, stocking will continue until it is deemed the stocked fish will no longer survive. Lots of different trout species were stocked from 2009 through 2013, these include brown trout, Snake River cutthroat, Yellowstone River cutthroat, Bear River cutthroat, Colorado River cutthroat, and rainbow trout. 

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Thank you for come on the site and give your time to answer some questions for us the info is extremly useful. Thanks again
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: hansonjb on Jan 01, 2014, 12:43 AM
is there a snake river G&F rep in here? is live bait prohibited everywhere in lakes in teton county?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Jan 01, 2014, 01:19 AM
Is there any place on the G&F website stating where and how many fish were stocked for the year?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 01, 2014, 03:27 PM
Is there any place on the G&F website stating where and how many fish were stocked for the year?

I'd love to see this, they do it in Utah.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dickeyrrd on Jan 02, 2014, 02:50 PM
What is the current state of east Allen, I was in the Virginian a couple of years ago and a barmaid told me WGF placed a cage with trout in it, in the lake and they died,She claimed that east Allen was no longer stocked, Did this really happen? And are you currently stocking fish there?    Thanks Bob ?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishinlove on Jan 03, 2014, 11:32 AM
is there a snake river G&F rep in here? is live bait prohibited everywhere in lakes in teton county?

live bait, such as minnows are prohibited. But live bait such as worms are legal unless other wise stated in regulation. And their is the link below. Only minor changes have been made to 2014 regs, nothing affecting live bait.

http://wgfd.wyo.gov/web2011/Departments/Fishing/pdfs/WYFISHINGREGS_1213_BROCHURE0000715.pdf
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyosledder on Jan 05, 2014, 11:04 AM
 Inside the cover of the new regs there is a disclaimer that refers to W.S. chapter 46. It ststes the regs are an abbreviated summary of the statutes. I cannot find any newer version of the statutes than 2010 on the web. Can you refer a source where the current enforceable  statute can be found? Does the  Illegal to use and possess  corn statement still exist in the current statutes?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tmeyer on Jan 05, 2014, 11:53 AM
Is there any place on the G&F website stating where and how many fish were stocked for the year?


Check this out jopes. http://wgfd.wyo.gov/web2011/fishing-1000439.aspx

Just click on the region you want to look  at.  The Sheridan region shows what and where stocking occured. (pg 11)   Not sure if they all do.  Hope this helps!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Toy on Jan 09, 2014, 12:21 PM
I would like to know if Donna Reservoir North of Gillette is stocked yearly, I have had great luck there in the past but on a recent trip had none. VERY FEW people know this hidden gem even exists and hope I'm not giving away my secret here. Hey if you can find it more power to ya.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Hole Tender on Jan 09, 2014, 12:54 PM
Eyepod tried last year with no bites. I don't remember if he marked any fish.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: sportsman234 on Jan 12, 2014, 02:48 PM
With the large amount of fish stocking that has occurred here with cost values in the many thousands-Why does the G&F have no say in the water levels in this lake? It seems like a huge waste to stock this lake with thousands and thousands of fish to now see the water level dropping again which will again lead to a huge fish die off eventually. Why is there no compromise between the ditch company and the G&F regarding water rights?


Dear wyice,

Since refilling in 2009, Wheatland #3 has been stocked annually, from 2009 through 2012 the size of fish stocked ranged from 2 inches to 8 inches, but a majority stocked in that time period were smaller fish in the 3-5 inch range. 2009 - 265,397 trout stocked; 2010 - 176,412; 2011 - 145,117; 2012 - 264,142; 2013 - 54,229 (all of these were 7-inch fish). From 2009 through 2012 the Game and Fish, Fish Culture Section did an outstanding job finding extra fish within their system to stock into #3. 2013 represented the first year of a normal fish stocking schedule, which should be around 70,000 7-inch RBT. The reservoir is starting to decrease again, stocking will continue until it is deemed the stocked fish will no longer survive. Lots of different trout species were stocked from 2009 through 2013, these include brown trout, Snake River cutthroat, Yellowstone River cutthroat, Bear River cutthroat, Colorado River cutthroat, and rainbow trout. 

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 12, 2014, 02:58 PM
Dear Game and Fish:

I only have a few laws I want changed, removed, or added... for the most part I think you guys do a heck of a job.  Thanks again for answering our questions.

Has perch meat ever been discussed for bait?  I know some neighboring states allow perch meat for bait and I don't really see the harm in it.  You let us keep 50 perch a day from a body of water... what is the harm in using a few of them for bait?

In case anyone is curious, strips of perch meat works great tipped on jigs for all sorts of species, crappie, trout, other perch, eyes, cats, etc.... everything likes perch.  (I'm not suggesting we use them as live bait to be clear though).  Either in chunks for cats or in strips for everything else...
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wifes folly on Jan 15, 2014, 04:50 PM
Thanks for creating the forum to answer questions and help avoid problems later.  I understand the need for strict regulations on live bait, particularly minnows, to avoid introducing non-native species and novel diseases.  While I understand the need, I don’t understand the regulations themselves for Area 5, the SE part of the state where I fish.  Page 8 of the 2014-15 Regulations book states “Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.”  It then goes on to prohibit use of live bait on all waters except as allowed under Area specific regulations on pages 23-33.  Area 5 regs allow use of live baitfish in described waters “provided the baitfish are obtained from a licensed live baitfish dealer authorized to sell baitfish for use in those waters.”  It then goes on to describe 4 live baitfish location areas, A-D, and prohibits movement of live bait approved for use inside, to outside those areas.  I think the intent is to limit movement of wild-caught live bait to the drainage they were caught in, but the regulation seems to apply to commercially-produced live bait as well.  A couple questions, is there a list of licensed bait dealers and what waters the minnows they sell are authorized for?  Can I buy minnows in Laramie, or at Glendo, and transport and use them at Hawk Springs?  Thanks for the clarification.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: lingrus on Jan 16, 2014, 01:02 AM
Thanks for creating the forum to answer questions and help avoid problems later.  I understand the need for strict regulations on live bait, particularly minnows, to avoid introducing non-native species and novel diseases.  While I understand the need, I don’t understand the regulations themselves for Area 5, the SE part of the state where I fish.  Page 8 of the 2014-15 Regulations book states “Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.”  It then goes on to prohibit use of live bait on all waters except as allowed under Area specific regulations on pages 23-33.  Area 5 regs allow use of live baitfish in described waters “provided the baitfish are obtained from a licensed live baitfish dealer authorized to sell baitfish for use in those waters.”  It then goes on to describe 4 live baitfish location areas, A-D, and prohibits movement of live bait approved for use inside, to outside those areas.  I think the intent is to limit movement of wild-caught live bait to the drainage they were caught in, but the regulation seems to apply to commercially-produced live bait as well.  A couple questions, is there a list of licensed bait dealers and what waters the minnows they sell are authorized for?  Can I buy minnows in Laramie, or at Glendo, and transport and use them at Hawk Springs? Thanks for the clarification.

Don't let anyone tell you that you don't have a sense of humor  ;)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wifes folly on Jan 16, 2014, 10:34 AM
Don't let anyone tell you that you don't have a sense of humor  ;)
I know what you mean.  It was supposed to be straight up but the regulations brochure is almost a parody of itself.  Two of us read it, twice, and we came away with totally different interpretations.  Kind of like banning minnows without really banning them, and may explain why there is no bait dealer in Cheyenne that I can find anyway.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 17, 2014, 05:21 PM
What is the current state of east Allen, I was in the Virginian a couple of years ago and a barmaid told me WGF placed a cage with trout in it, in the lake and they died,She claimed that east Allen was no longer stocked, Did this really happen? And are you currently stocking fish there?    Thanks Bob ?

Dear dickeyrrd,

We did put 12 rainbow trout in cages in 2008, prior to stocking all 50,000, to see if fish were dying just after being stocked. Some of the fish died in the cage and some did not, so the results were inconclusive. However, sampling efforts in 2009 confirmed the collapse of the East Allen Lake fishery. Some potential factors suspected in the decline of the fishery were drought and the resulting low water levels, hydrogen sulfide gas buildup, heavy algae blooms and eutrophication.  Run off from spring storms in 2010 filled the lake to five feet above the fall 2009 level. Water quality parameters improved in 2010 due to the influx of water. No stocking occurred in 2010, however annual stocking has sinced resumed due to the 2010 fill. In 2011 and 2012, around 50,000 rainbow trout and 10,000 Bear River cutthroat trout were stocked each year. In 2013, 20,000 rainbow trout, 20,000 Bear River cutthroat, and 8,000 tiger trout were stocked. Based on sampling from 2011-2013, the stocked fish are surviving. Catch rates still seem to be low. It is our hope that the tiger trout thrive in East Allen due to the large forage base of fathead minnows and brook stickleback.

Hope you have good luck at East Allen in the future,

Sincerely,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 17, 2014, 05:32 PM
With the large amount of fish stocking that has occurred here with cost values in the many thousands-Why does the G&F have no say in the water levels in this lake? It seems like a huge waste to stock this lake with thousands and thousands of fish to now see the water level dropping again which will again lead to a huge fish die off eventually. Why is there no compromise between the ditch company and the G&F regarding water rights?

Dear Sportsman234,

The Wheatland Irrigation District has an obligation to their users to supply them with the water they have rights to, which is why these reservoirs exist. The Irrigation District has been a great partner for the Game and Fish to work with. They have agreed to long term easements allowing public access to areas such as Wheatland Reservoir #3 and Wheatland Reservoir #1, without this anglers and recreationists would not have these places to visit or fish. Wheatland Reservoir #3 will be a boom and bust reservoir, right now we are in a boom period. Based on our annual water level measurements, we might have 3-5 years before we might need to stop stocking the reservoir. When the reservoir refilled the Department felt it was a priority to get it restocked with fish, which is what we did. Now that it has a good base population, we plan to only stock 70,000 rainbow trout annually. The reason for the hundreds of thousands of fish was just the fact that we were fully starting over with the fishery. I understand and appreciate your concern. The Department will continue to provide the fish when needed and we hope anglers like you take advantage of this great resource when it is available.

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 17, 2014, 05:36 PM
Dear Game and Fish:

I only have a few laws I want changed, removed, or added... for the most part I think you guys do a heck of a job.  Thanks again for answering our questions.

Has perch meat ever been discussed for bait?  I know some neighboring states allow perch meat for bait and I don't really see the harm in it.  You let us keep 50 perch a day from a body of water... what is the harm in using a few of them for bait?

In case anyone is curious, strips of perch meat works great tipped on jigs for all sorts of species, crappie, trout, other perch, eyes, cats, etc.... everything likes perch.  (I'm not suggesting we use them as live bait to be clear though).  Either in chunks for cats or in strips for everything else...

Dear GemCitySlayer,

I'm sure you are aware that you can use, as stated on page 6 of the Fishing Regs, the internal organs, eggs, eyes, fins, and skin of game fish legally as bait. I have been told that perch eyes are hard to beat. You could use strips of perch skin, without the meat attached. As always you can submit your comments for changes during our open comment period when we are changing regulations.

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dickeyrrd on Jan 20, 2014, 11:38 PM
WG&F Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions, This is an awesome link to our state resources and I for one, appreciate your efforts.   Bob
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 21, 2014, 12:57 PM
Game and Fish:

Recently someone mentioned on here that High Savery Reservoir is going through some kind of problems / transition?  The guy on here said a lot of fish were dying due to the decomposition of all the sage brush?  Does this have anything to do with the low water?

Are these reports true?  Could you give us an idea of what is going on?

Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: allornothing on Jan 22, 2014, 11:46 AM
Game and Fish:

I was wondering if a Wyoming resident purchases a lifetime fishing license/conservation stamp and leaves the state later on and becomes a resident in a different state will that license and stamp still be valid to use in Wyoming?
Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 22, 2014, 03:08 PM
Thanks for creating the forum to answer questions and help avoid problems later.  I understand the need for strict regulations on live bait, particularly minnows, to avoid introducing non-native species and novel diseases.  While I understand the need, I don’t understand the regulations themselves for Area 5, the SE part of the state where I fish.  Page 8 of the 2014-15 Regulations book states “Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.”  It then goes on to prohibit use of live bait on all waters except as allowed under Area specific regulations on pages 23-33.  Area 5 regs allow use of live baitfish in described waters “provided the baitfish are obtained from a licensed live baitfish dealer authorized to sell baitfish for use in those waters.”  It then goes on to describe 4 live baitfish location areas, A-D, and prohibits movement of live bait approved for use inside, to outside those areas.  I think the intent is to limit movement of wild-caught live bait to the drainage they were caught in, but the regulation seems to apply to commercially-produced live bait as well.  A couple questions, is there a list of licensed bait dealers and what waters the minnows they sell are authorized for?  Can I buy minnows in Laramie, or at Glendo, and transport and use them at Hawk Springs?  Thanks for the clarification.

Dear Wifes Folly,

Lets first deal with your statement, "Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.”  It then goes on to prohibit use of live bait on all waters except as allowed under Area specific regulations on pages 23-33."

The first sentence states "Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.” is true, however; there is currently not an in-state source of commercially produced live baitfish, such as the fathead minnow, which is the only approved statewide use baitfish. The Women's Prison in Lusk was trying to get something started, but currently is not an option for commercially produced live baitfish. If there was a source, you could transport throughout Area 5 and possess them at Area 5 waters where live baitfish are allowed.

The second sentence states "Use or possession of commercially produced live baitfish is prohibited on all waters except as otherwise provided on pages 23-33." This statement is clarifying that while you can transport and possess commercially produced live baitfish in Areas 2,3 and 5, you better not be in possession of them on a water that does not allow the use of live baitfish. Here's a scenario - If you were able to purchase commercially produced livebait fish (i.e. fathead minnows) in Laramie, you could transport and be in possession of those live baitfish at Glendo Reservoir or Hawk Springs Reservoir, but you could not transport and be in possession of those live baitfish at Lake Hattie.   

You can contact Cheyenne to get a list of Live Bait Dealers, but here are some that I found that have already purchased their 2014 Live Bait Dealer license within Area 5. Glendo Trading Post, Sloanes General Store in Alcova, Rocky Mountain Discount Sports in Casper, and SS Bait Company in Casper on Facebook. Since there are no commercially produced live baitfish available in Wyoming, each live baitfish dealer will be selling wild caught baitfish and they will let you know what Area (A-D) in Area 5 that you could use those wild caught baitfish. In addition, you will be given a receipt stating which Area (A-D) in Area 5 you can use them in as well. I don't know if all the above listed Live Bait Dealers are currently selling wild caught baitfish, but to answer your one specific question, if the Glendo Trading Post is selling wild caught live baitfish for Area A in Area 5 you could then transport those to Hawk Springs Reservoir or Grayrocks Reservoir for use.

The Fish Division is working hard at developing a solution to the lack viable sources of commercially produced live baitfish. Currently under regulations it states that no live baitfish shall be transported into the state for use as live baitfish. This regulation ties our hands in allowing certified disease free statewide use minnows (i.e. fathead minnows) to be imported into the state for sale. There will be a push to change this regulation in the following years.

Hopefully this helps answer some of your questions and clears the muddy waters on this subject a bit,

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Jan 23, 2014, 08:23 AM
Thank you for your time and effort that you put into your answers WGFDFishBioLaramie. We all appreciate it.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishinlove on Jan 24, 2014, 09:33 PM
Game and Fish:

I was wondering if a Wyoming resident purchases a lifetime fishing license/conservation stamp and leaves the state later on and becomes a resident in a different state will that license and stamp still be valid to use in Wyoming?
Thanks

Good question I am also interested in the response..
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Jan 24, 2014, 09:41 PM
I was told when I bought my lifetime fishing and conservation stamp a number of years ago that if you moved out of state after purchasing the lifetime license it was valid to use when you return to Wyoming to visit (or if you moved back to the state).

ClearCreek
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wifes folly on Jan 28, 2014, 06:38 PM
Dear Wifes Folly,

Lets first deal with your statement, "Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.”  It then goes on to prohibit use of live bait on all waters except as allowed under Area specific regulations on pages 23-33."

The first sentence states "Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.” is true, however; there is currently not an in-state source of commercially produced live baitfish, such as the fathead minnow, which is the only approved statewide use baitfish. The Women's Prison in Lusk was trying to get something started, but currently is not an option for commercially produced live baitfish. If there was a source, you could transport throughout Area 5 and possess them at Area 5 waters where live baitfish are allowed.

The second sentence states "Use or possession of commercially produced live baitfish is prohibited on all waters except as otherwise provided on pages 23-33." This statement is clarifying that while you can transport and possess commercially produced live baitfish in Areas 2,3 and 5, you better not be in possession of them on a water that does not allow the use of live baitfish. Here's a scenario - If you were able to purchase commercially produced livebait fish (i.e. fathead minnows) in Laramie, you could transport and be in possession of those live baitfish at Glendo Reservoir or Hawk Springs Reservoir, but you could not transport and be in possession of those live baitfish at Lake Hattie.   

You can contact Cheyenne to get a list of Live Bait Dealers, but here are some that I found that have already purchased their 2014 Live Bait Dealer license within Area 5. Glendo Trading Post, Sloanes General Store in Alcova, Rocky Mountain Discount Sports in Casper, and SS Bait Company in Casper on Facebook. Since there are no commercially produced live baitfish available in Wyoming, each live baitfish dealer will be selling wild caught baitfish and they will let you know what Area (A-D) in Area 5 that you could use those wild caught baitfish. In addition, you will be given a receipt stating which Area (A-D) in Area 5 you can use them in as well. I don't know if all the above listed Live Bait Dealers are currently selling wild caught baitfish, but to answer your one specific question, if the Glendo Trading Post is selling wild caught live baitfish for Area A in Area 5 you could then transport those to Hawk Springs Reservoir or Grayrocks Reservoir for use.

The Fish Division is working hard at developing a solution to the lack viable sources of commercially produced live baitfish. Currently under regulations it states that no live baitfish shall be transported into the state for use as live baitfish. This regulation ties our hands in allowing certified disease free statewide use minnows (i.e. fathead minnows) to be imported into the state for sale. There will be a push to change this regulation in the following years.

Hopefully this helps answer some of your questions and clears the muddy waters on this subject a bit,

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie

That helps a lot, thank you!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: theo9805 on Jan 29, 2014, 08:18 AM
I heard game and fish had a station set up doing surveys out at Healy Reservoir over the weekend. I'd like to hear the results.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 29, 2014, 10:41 AM
Thanks for the inquiry. There turned out to be some interesting info.

We interviewed folks from 39 vehicles and there were an additional 43 vehicles in the parking lots for a total of 82 vehicles at Healy from 9:30 to 3:00pm (busy day)!

There was an average of 2.7 people/vehicle for an estimated 220 people fishing (while we were there).

Average fishing time was 3.3 hours/person and average catch rate was 7.1 perch/hour (this varied widely).

Anglers that were interviewed said they caught 1,789 perch and kept 618 of them (34.5% of the catch).

Estimated catch of the day was 4,710 perch and estimated harvest was 1,695 perch. That works out to 322 pounds of perch harvested (at 0.19lbs/fish).

The average perch length was 7.5 inches. The largest fish measured was 9.1 inches. Very comparable to what we have seen in our gill nets (average perch in gill nets in 2013 was 7.4 inches)

Perhaps the most interesting thing that we've seen is how popular Healy has become and this is based on vehicle license plates. 61% of the vehicles were from outside Johnson County. There were 2 vehicles from Montana, 1 from Michigan, and the rest were from WY.

Breakdown by county: Johnson: 39%, Natrona: 20%, Campbell: 18%, Sheridan: 15%, Counties 2, 10, 13, 18, and 20= 8%
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: chasinflagz on Jan 29, 2014, 12:58 PM
I was looking at doing a small derby through our work for our staff and customers.  Wanted to make sure we were playing by all the rules so what is my process to make sure I have everything documented?  Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 29, 2014, 01:41 PM
I was looking at doing a small derby through our work for our staff and customers.  Wanted to make sure we were playing by all the rules so what is my process to make sure I have everything documented?  Thanks!
The first step is to go to our website http://wgfd.wyo.gov/web2011/home.aspx, then to Fishing and Watercraft, then to Fishing Contests. Read through the first link, Fishing Contest Requirements. If your contest meets the requirements, then you must fill out a Fishing Contest Application and return to the address given. The application will be forwarded to the appropriate region and then approved or denied.  By the sounds of it, you won't meet the requirements to even fill out an application.
Look through the info, and if you have any questions, feel free to give me a call or PM.

Andrew Nikirk
307-672-8003 ext.237
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tmeyer on Jan 29, 2014, 03:44 PM
"The first sentence states "Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.” is true, however; there is currently not an in-state source of commercially produced live baitfish, such as the fathead minnow, which is the only approved statewide use baitfish."



Bush's bait Co in gillette produces and supplies state certified minnows.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 29, 2014, 05:38 PM
"The first sentence states "Commercially produced live baitfish may be transported and possessed throughout Areas 2, 3 and 5 (east of the continental divide) except where the use of live baitfish is prohibited.” is true, however; there is currently not an in-state source of commercially produced live baitfish, such as the fathead minnow, which is the only approved statewide use baitfish."

tmeyer,

Being down here in Laramie I was not aware of that one. WGFDFishBio informed me, after my post, about Bush's bait. Thanks for letting everyone know. WGFDFishBio did say that if you intend to travel to pick up some bait from Bush's bait, you should call ahead to see about their supply.

Take care,

WGFDFishBioLaramie


Bush's bait Co in gillette produces and supplies state certified minnows.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tmeyer on Jan 29, 2014, 06:24 PM
No problem.  Bush also stated he had been selling to a place in story as well but im not sure which one.  He does work so make sure if your lookin for bait from him to call to set up a time for him to stop down and meet you.  He usually has some decent sized minnows, and also he has meal worms.  He said he is currently working on night crawlers as well. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 30, 2014, 08:58 AM
Should have posted this sooner. But yes, Bush's Bait Co currently is the only statewide certified minnow dealer. He is located out of Gillette and his contact information is 307-660-9686 or 307-689-3136. Call for an appointment.  Bush has also supplied minnows to the Story Store and their contact information is 307-683-3150.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Fryinpan on Feb 02, 2014, 11:50 AM
Thank you!! for sharing your findings on Healy.  Very interesting and appreciated. :)

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dfauverii on Feb 04, 2014, 03:45 PM
Could we get you guys to throw some musky in Renner reservoir?  I know you've put catfish in there and some have become really big but i think a musky would be better for the purpose of eating small fish.  Plus it would be nice to have some around here.  Others in the state have opportunities like that and it sure would be cool if we did.  Also, have you ever shocked Renner and if so what's the biggest bass you've found?  I saw two in there this last summer that were truly huge bass.  My brother and i catch 3-4 pounders out of there regularly and these ones blew them away.  I have bought some much larger lures for the upcoming season in hopes of catching them.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoming_man on Feb 10, 2014, 08:28 AM
Game and Fish:

Recently someone mentioned on here that High Savery Reservoir is going through some kind of problems / transition?  The guy on here said a lot of fish were dying due to the decomposition of all the sage brush?  Does this have anything to do with the low water?

Are these reports true?  Could you give us an idea of what is going on?

Thanks!
I was the one who mentioned as I had heard from someone else.  I would like to know how true it is as well.
Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: rbmchief on Feb 12, 2014, 08:50 PM
(http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj88/rbmchief/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/C53776FF-9C3E-42EF-9E72-8674B2F7578B_zpswbvsyvlb.jpg)][URL=http://s270.photobucket.com/user/rbmchief/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/C53776FF-9C3E-42EF-9E72-8674B2F7578B_zpswbvsyvlb.jpg.html](http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj88/rbmchief/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/C53776FF-9C3E-42EF-9E72-8674B2F7578B_zpswbvsyvlb.jpg) (http://[URL=http://s270.photobucket.com/user/rbmchief/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2014-02/C53776FF-9C3E-42EF-9E72-8674B2F7578B_zpswbvsyvlb.jpg.html)

Is this real? It can't be can it? Can you find out the reasoning behind this?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: eve21 on Feb 13, 2014, 09:00 AM
With all of the tickets at the keyhole tournament for people not having their names on their lines, a question came up.  I have a number of ice fishing rods as my wife and two boys also like to fish. You can never have too many right?  They all have my name on them so how does it work if I have them with me or take a friend that doesn't fish much nor have his own gear and he is using rods with my name on it?  Do I have to keep a label maker with me and put everyone's individual name on the line if they want to fish that day?  I understand the purpose behind the rule but on the same token, how would this work to be able to keep introducing people to the sport?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Feb 13, 2014, 09:36 AM
With all of the tickets at the keyhole tournament for people not having their names on their lines, a question came up.  I have a number of ice fishing rods as my wife and two boys also like to fish. You can never have too many right?  They all have my name on them so how does it work if I have them with me or take a friend that doesn't fish much nor have his own gear and he is using rods with my name on it?  Do I have to keep a label maker with me and put everyone's individual name on the line if they want to fish that day?  I understand the purpose behind the rule but on the same token, how would this work to be able to keep introducing people to the sport?
I do the same thing with tipups and just take a peace of white duck tape and write their name on it and put it over my label. My understanding is that if it has your name on it even though another person is using it you are the person it counts toward.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: zjlooney on Feb 13, 2014, 09:45 AM
With all of the tickets at the keyhole tournament for people not having their names on their lines, a question came up.  I have a number of ice fishing rods as my wife and two boys also like to fish. You can never have too many right?  They all have my name on them so how does it work if I have them with me or take a friend that doesn't fish much nor have his own gear and he is using rods with my name on it?  Do I have to keep a label maker with me and put everyone's individual name on the line if they want to fish that day?  I understand the purpose behind the rule but on the same token, how would this work to be able to keep introducing people to the sport?
I'm the same way, I've never had an issue though.  I don't see what the problem would be if everyone in the group has a fishing license and there are x amount of lines in the water (2 people twelve lines, or two people and four lines, depending on where you're at).  I know I wouldn't stand out on the ice all day just so a buddy could fish twelve lines while I didn't fish at all.  We've been checked numerous times at De Smet and never even been asked about having names on our lines.  I've never been checked at Keyhole though so maybe I should keep that in mind.  I would think some common sense and discretion would be needed in enforcing this one, but then again rules are rules maybe.  Another question would be, what if the lines don't have a name on them at all?  I've never labeled mine.   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 13, 2014, 10:14 AM
With all of the tickets at the keyhole tournament for people not having their names on their lines, a question came up.  I have a number of ice fishing rods as my wife and two boys also like to fish. You can never have too many right?  They all have my name on them so how does it work if I have them with me or take a friend that doesn't fish much nor have his own gear and he is using rods with my name on it?  Do I have to keep a label maker with me and put everyone's individual name on the line if they want to fish that day?  I understand the purpose behind the rule but on the same token, how would this work to be able to keep introducing people to the sport?
The regulation of having your fishing rods or tip-ups labeled with your name first appeared in 1978-79 for Area 4 (Boysen, Ocean). This regulation first appeared for Keyhole and DeSmet in 1982-83. I am in the same boat you are, lots of rods and tip-ups, a family, and friends. The easiest solution that I have found is to use duct tape and a sharpie. That way if someone new is fishing with me, we can scratch out my name and write his. The label does not have to be permanent, just legible, with your first and last name, so a warden can identify who's is who's, especially when large groups of people are fishing together. If you fish with two or fewer rods or tip-ups, you do not need your gear labeled. Hope this helps.   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tmeyer on Feb 17, 2014, 08:07 PM
Wyo G&F Bio,  its been said that a guy from sheridan has caught multiple 26+ inch tiger musky from Healy in the past few weeks.  Are the stocked fish growing at this rate?  Its my understanding the largest stocked was 9 in, and they grow at a rate of 12 inches max per year.  Please give a bit of insight and correct me if the info I have is wrong.   Thanks!!!

 ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 18, 2014, 09:47 AM
Wyo G&F Bio,  its been said that a guy from sheridan has caught multiple 26+ inch tiger musky from Healy in the past few weeks.  Are the stocked fish growing at this rate?  Its my understanding the largest stocked was 9 in, and they grow at a rate of 12 inches max per year.  Please give a bit of insight and correct me if the info I have is wrong.   Thanks!!!

 ??? ??? ???
The growth of the tiger musky in Healy has been quite phenomenal since their introduction. We stocked 1,000 6 inch musky in October 2012 and in April 2013 these fish were between 11 and 14 inches. By October 2013 I received a reliable report of musky in the 22 inch range. This winter, we have seen anglers catch musky from 22 to 25 inches, so a report of a 26 inch musky does not surprise me. With the plethora of food available to these fish (perch and suckers) we should expect some good growth.

Another example from a lake in Nebraska where tiger musky were stocked at 900 to 1,200 fish per pound or about 1" to 1.5". Thirteen months later these fish were 19 inches.

Given the good growth at Healy so far we should easily see some legal sized (30 inches or bigger) in summer/early fall 2014.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: tmeyer on Feb 19, 2014, 01:02 PM
Wow. Never woulda guessed they were gettin that big already!   Thanks for the info!   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: slickrockhounds on Feb 22, 2014, 09:37 PM
great info, thanks WY G&F for taking time to participate I think that is great
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dfauverii on Feb 26, 2014, 09:54 AM
  So how about some tiger musky in renner?  Never got a response and i'm hopeful.  Also i heard something about a change in the regulations on use of artificial light.  The person that told me said he heard something about it on K2 news but didn't have much for details. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SkunkedAgain on Feb 27, 2014, 03:29 PM
When putting in for moose I was allowed only choice for an area to hunt. Can you tell me why this decision was made? Is it to give more leeway for the super tag or trifecta? A reply would be greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 28, 2014, 09:44 AM
  So how about some tiger musky in renner?  Never got a response and i'm hopeful.  Also i heard something about a change in the regulations on use of artificial light.  The person that told me said he heard something about it on K2 news but didn't have much for details.
Renner is in the Cody region and we do not have a WGFD Cody representative on here. You would have to call the Cody office and ask for a fisheries biologist (307-527-7125). As far as the artificial light, we have discussed this issue to allow the use of light when fishing. It is my guess at this point, but the soonest this would likely be allowed (assuming it would be allowed in the first place) would be during the next regulation cycle, which would be 2016-17.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 28, 2014, 11:11 AM
When putting in for moose I was allowed only choice for an area to hunt. Can you tell me why this decision was made? Is it to give more leeway for the super tag or trifecta? A reply would be greatly appreciated.
Quotas for moose have decreased over time. All moose areas are over subscribed (more people putting in for the tag than tags themselves), thus nothing will be filled on a second or third choice. Several years ago, the occasional moose tag was filled on a second choice, but no longer. So we just got rid of that option on the application process because it's just not going to happen on a second or third choice. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dfauverii on Feb 28, 2014, 03:38 PM
Quotas for moose have decreased over time. All moose areas are over subscribed (more people putting in for the tag than tags themselves), thus nothing will be filled on a second or third choice. Several years ago, the occasional moose tag was filled on a second choice, but no longer. So we just got rid of that option on the application process because it's just not going to happen on a second or third choice. Hope this helps.

I work with a guy that said the law passed legislature.  All i want to do is shoot carp at night using lights.  That's where my interest comes in.  Other than that it's not necessary.  I believe you can use light to watch your rod tip already.  I assume you can use a light while netting a fish on your line as well.  Maybe that's incorrect and if so please let me know.  Thanks.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: htc on Mar 02, 2014, 11:00 AM
question about trapping bait fish in area 3 the regulation book says

"Area 3 Live baitfish location A
Live baitfish may be used for bait in the waters listed in subsection (i)
provided the baitfi sh are obtained from a licensed live baitfish dealer
authorized to sell baitfi sh for use in these waters or the baitfi sh were
seined or trapped from the waters listed below in subsection (ii).
Live baitfish restricted to use in location A shall not be transported out
of the designated wild caught live baitfish possession area defined
in subsection (iii).
(i) Live baitfish may be used in the following waters: Keyhole Reservoir;
and, Belle Fourche River proper.
(ii) A holder of a valid seining license may seine, net or trap baitfish
from the following waters: Keyhole Reservoir; and, Belle Fourche River
drainage.
(iii) The designated wild caught live baitfish possession area for
location A is the Belle Fourche River drainage, Little Missouri drainage,
Little Powder drainage and Cheyenne River drainage. "

this is a picture of flow into keyhole from http://nationalatlas.gov/streamer/Streamer/streamer.html

(http://s27.postimg.cc/s7id3pywz/keyholeup.jpg)

does this mean minnows can be trapped in the red upflows from keyhole? that is what makes sense to me. the areas marked on the map are belle fourche river drainage.

thanks, htc
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Mar 03, 2014, 09:04 AM
does this mean minnows can be trapped in the red upflows from keyhole? that is what makes sense to me. the areas marked on the map are belle fourche river drainage.


Nice map. And the answer is yes, looks like you understand the regulation (a little wordy and confusing). But technically, as long as you're in the Belle Fourche Basin, which also includes the waters below Keyhole, you can trap or seine there as well and bring those minnows to Keyhole. That opens up lots of other waters to trapping and seining.  The only thing a person really has to worry about is the "possession" part of this regulation. If you happen to live outside the Belle, Little Powder, or Cheyenne river drainages, you can not possess Belle Fourche minnows at your house.  If you live outside of these drainages, you can still trap or seine, you just have to make other arrangements for storage. Hope this helps.

 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: htc on Mar 03, 2014, 09:01 PM
wow thanks for the quick and precise response. exactly what i was hoping for had no idea it would extend that far below keyhole.

and since i live in wright and hay creek flows through there i'll be able to keep minnows and home. this just keeps getting better.

thanks again, clint.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: htc on Mar 04, 2014, 05:40 AM
just to make sure it also includes creeks that drain into the belle below keyhole?

thanks, clint
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 19, 2014, 09:52 AM
Our Wyoming Game and Fish has offered to volunteer their valuable time to answer our questions. Please keep in mind that their time on the site is very limited, and that not all questions may be answered. Hopefully this thread can be used by both sides to gain valuable insight. Please maintain the Q&A nature of the thread by reserving discussion for separate threads.

All G&F employees are invited to use the thread as a resource to share information, news and events affecting Wyoming sportsmen.

On behalf of our members, I thank the Wyoming G&F for taking the time to contribute to the site and it's members.  :clap:

Dear Wyoming Ice Shanty Users,

I have truly enjoyed answering your questions about different waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region. I hope this Q/A thread has been useful to you, I know it has been a great way to exchange information between anglers and WGFD. I will also migrate over to the MyFishFinder Forum. The summer is very busy for us fish biologists, however, I will do my best to address questions in that forum. If I did not get a question answered this winter about a Laramie Region water, I apologize, but please send me an email (either on this site or at [email protected]) and I will get to it. It was great setting up a meeting in Wheatland through Ice Shanty, look forward to doing more of those types of get togethers next off season. If you see me out and about, come introduce yourself, would like to put some faces to Ice Shanty user names.

Tight lines,

WGFDFishBioLaramie 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Mar 19, 2014, 12:08 PM
WGFDFishBioLaramie you are a welcomed resource and good friend of Ice Shanty, thank you sir. Have a great Summer and I hope to cross your path and share a few stories somewhere in the High country!

- wyoutdoors  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Mar 19, 2014, 07:01 PM
Mike summed it up. Thank you for your time. You are a great asset to the site!

Wyofarmer
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoboypt on Apr 03, 2014, 02:34 PM
Why does the wygfd insist on catering to non resident fisherman by promoting rainbow trout? They already have the platte and now youre trying to get rid of walleye in alcova? Most of the resident fisherman i know want to catch walleye, not trout. And least of all rainbow trout. Its very irritating that the wgfd is more interested in managing for nonresidents than residents.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Apr 03, 2014, 04:38 PM
Why does the wygfd insist on catering to non resident fisherman by promoting rainbow trout? They already have the platte and now youre trying to get rid of walleye in alcova? Most of the resident fisherman i know want to catch walleye, not trout. And least of all rainbow trout. Its very irritating that the wgfd is more interested in managing for nonresidents than residents.
I'm not quite sure I understand your question. We do not cater for anyone except the resource. I'm assuming that you are referring to the increase in the walleye limit for Alcova? Yes, the Casper crew increased the creel limit from the statewide 6 fish/day to a limit of 12/day, and that was for the fact that few people know how to catch walleye there, and for the fact that the walleye population is "top heavy" and they are preying heavily on stocked trout. I believe the Casper crew is just trying to shift the walleye size structure to a slightly smaller size to reduce some of the predation on trout. And from what I understand, could be wrong here, but a large majority of the anglers at Alcova are trout anglers.  But in what way does this change cater to the nonresident? It seems to me that anyone would have equal opportunity and take advantage of the increased creel limit.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoboypt on Apr 03, 2014, 06:02 PM
Yes anyone can take advantage of the creel limit but with that creel limit the walleye are going to be close to eradicated in one summer, then  there wont be any to catch. And to be fair, the wgfd should take a poll from the residents on what theyd rather catch, walleye or trout.
 Theres plenty of trout, how bout we stock walleye for a change.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Nezlugh on Apr 04, 2014, 06:40 PM
Saw this Article and it has opened a batch of questions. We need some guidance on the use of glow-in-the-dark and when it is legal and illegal. Local game officer says it is not legal to use anything that is lighted by any means, day or night fishing. HELP!

http://trib.com/lifestyles/recreation/wyoming-game-and-fish-may-update-several-fishing-regulations/article_3ae0938e-8b4d-50c6-a095-9fa49730d0f6.html
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Hole Tender on Apr 04, 2014, 06:44 PM
It seems inefficient to manage a lake for both walleye and trout. A better use of resources might be to let the walleye eat the trout. It seems backwards to reduce the size and numbers of such a sought after species of fish. My opinion is biased though. I love catching walleye and don't really care if I ever catch another trout. I would like to see a survey of Wyoming license holders.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Apr 05, 2014, 08:48 AM
Our Wyoming Game and Fish has offered to volunteer their valuable time to answer our questions. Please keep in mind that their time on the site is very limited, and that not all questions may be answered. Hopefully this thread can be used by both sides to gain valuable insight. Please maintain the Q&A nature of the thread by reserving discussion for separate threads.

All G&F employees are invited to use the thread as a resource to share information, news and events affecting Wyoming sportsmen.

On behalf of our members, I thank the Wyoming G&F for taking the time to contribute to the site and it's members.  :clap:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: thirdeye on Apr 08, 2014, 11:22 PM
I have a question regarding bead location on a trout rig.  Photos on the G&F poster and in the Casper Star Tribune made specific mention of the bead being within 2" of a "fly".  Is it legal to use a bead as a slip sinker stop above a barrel swivel, which is generally 2 feet to 4 feet above a bait hook or a fly?  I use soft beads as a shock absorber of sorts when drift fishing this rig in the river, or when using this rig for shore fishing lakes.  The color of the bead I use does not matter to me... but many of the soft beads for sale are in the red/orange range (which is the color of eggs).  I can't imagine that this set-up could be called some sort of snagging rig but wanted some input.  I guess I could go for a piece of yarn above the barrel swivel if I had to, but isn't that an attractor too?

(http://i.imgur.com/QtnoENx.jpg?1)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Nezlugh on Aug 27, 2014, 10:02 PM
WYGF question. Days are getting shorter and thoughts are turning to burbot fishing. Just want to know if there has been any decisions on the use of the Glow-in-the-dark lures, jigs and baits. Companies will be introducing their Ice Fishing supplies soon and looking for the next big thing to use.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Aug 30, 2014, 09:40 PM
Nezlugh

See my reply to fishingeorge below.

ClearCreek
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Nezlugh on Aug 30, 2014, 10:48 PM
Thank you ClearCreek I look forward to the announcement of their decision.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Sep 18, 2014, 11:07 AM
Please see the update on the artificial light regulation in the artificial light thread below.

ClearCreek
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jacinc2 on Nov 19, 2014, 11:20 AM
Saw a post earlier about "shrimp" falling off an anglers hook. Is it legal to use raw shrimp as bait in Wyoming? Any shrimp like store bought not from a bait shop?

Actually it is legal to use shrimp, unless it is specified that you may only use artificial bait it is legal... Also you may NOT take a live bait from one body of water to fish at a different body of water..while the bait is alive... you must make sure the bait is DEAD but you can still fish with it.. Also, if you buy the bait, make sure it is NOT ALIVE when you use it... this is the way that they can keep invasive fish problems from happening..

Wyoming Game and Fish are a great help and I totally support the way they handle these kind of situation.  I come from Florida and have seen how serious this kind of problem can be..

Hope I helped you.. if you would like, email me at: [email protected] and I can send you a copy of fishing regulations or you can go to http://wgfd.wyo.gov/ and obtain it from them...

Have a great day in the water...

Johnny Quest - Out!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jacinc2 on Nov 19, 2014, 11:30 AM
Has there been a change the last two years in how west newton lake in Cody has been stocked?  Historically I have always caught a bunch of cutts in the lake although they were quite small.  The last two years I have been averaging much larger fish but the count seems to be less.

Thanks!

The Newton Lakes Endowment is a permanent fund in the Wyoming Community foundation to ensure the future of Newton lakes and other sport fisheries within Park County, Wyoming. This endowment was initially established by the members of Absaroka Flycasters and Trout Unlimited. For more information contact the Wyoming Community Foundation 307-766-2477

This is the information I have about Newton Lakes.. I believe you might get some information from the Foundation regarding sport fishery there..
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: htc on Nov 19, 2014, 02:35 PM
i'm curious what qualifies as a live bait west of continental divide. worms waxies minnnows crawdads. is it only live fish being minnows that can't be used?

i've gotten into using creek chubs over here in keyhole and wow it would be amazing using them in the gorge but i know that would be illegal so it it just live fish or minnows that are banned?

thanks htc
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Nov 19, 2014, 08:09 PM
Wondering if Renner was restocked with Bass this year and if the catfish survived last winter? Not targeting cats, just curious. Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Nov 24, 2014, 06:14 PM
Why do all the rainbows in granite and crystal reservoirs look so sickly?  Is there no feed in those lakes.  The browns look fat and healthy.  Are there never any rainbows that holdover from year to year in that lake. Seems like every fish you catch is a mirror image of the last one, 9 inches long and skinny as a pencil.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Nov 30, 2014, 01:29 PM
I heard rumors of sauger stocked in the N. Platte below Dave Johnston powerplant, kokanee stocked in Alcova and crappie from Keyhole stocked in Lake McKenzie...any truth to these? Thank you!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 01, 2014, 08:41 AM
I heard rumors of sauger stocked in the N. Platte below Dave Johnston powerplant, kokanee stocked in Alcova and crappie from Keyhole stocked in Lake McKenzie...any truth to these? Thank you!
To my knowledge, there are no biologists from Casper who participate on IS. I would give the Casper Regional Office a call and ask to speak with a fisheries biologist about your questions. 307-473-3400
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Dec 01, 2014, 06:05 PM
To my knowledge, there are no biologists from Casper who participate on IS. I would give the Casper Regional Office a call and ask to speak with a fisheries biologist about your questions. 307-473-3400

I appreciate the response! I'll call tomorrow and share the info here. Thank you!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wforbes on Dec 02, 2014, 11:57 AM
Could we get the Game and Fish to stock some walleye in Granite reservoir between Laramie and Cheyenne?  Someone put a few in there illegally over the years and someone caught a 10lb+ fish out of there a few years ago?

You recently put in 500 or so lake trout... I think the majority of them were harvested...  With perch, crawfish, suckers and planter rainbows as forage.... couldn't granite provide some interesting walleye fishing if you stocked 500-1,000 walleyes in there?  They obviously can do well in this lake.  It would provide anglers in the Laramie and Cheyenne region a closer place to fish for them too.

I don't think you'll see very many people complain about walleye in there... in fact it could increase fishing interest big time.

planter rainbows are way too "precious" and expensive for forage lol I would love to see it become a walleye lake too but it will never happen. It would be awesome if they stocked walleye and shad for them to feed on but if they continue to stock little trout, walleye are out of the question :(
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Dec 02, 2014, 01:04 PM
I could care one way or the other about walleyes, what I want go see in there is a good population or perch and crappies. Those rainbows out of there look ill.  But it is there for one reason, a place close to cheyenne and laramie to take your family for a weekend of easy fishing.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wforbes on Dec 03, 2014, 12:03 AM
gemcityslayer

lol that's exactly what's going on at Alcova and that's why they upped the limit to 12 walleye per day in there. I wish we could use 12" rainbows for bait :P haha but instead of fighting the walleye I agree they should manage some more of these lakes for them instead! 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Dec 03, 2014, 09:49 AM
Our Wyoming Game and Fish has offered to volunteer their valuable time to answer our questions. Please keep in mind that their time on the site is very limited, and that not all questions may be answered. Hopefully this thread can be used by both sides to gain valuable insight. Please maintain the Q&A nature of the thread by reserving discussion for separate threads.

All G&F employees are invited to use the thread as a resource to share information, news and events affecting Wyoming sportsmen.

On behalf of our members, I thank the Wyoming G&F for taking the time to contribute to the site and it's members.
Thanks,
Mod Team
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 08, 2014, 10:44 AM
Thanks again for opening this thread to the WGFD and to allow us the continued opportunity to answer questions and exchange information.  I look forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region, which covers the Upper North Platte River drainage before it enters Seminoe, the Medicine Bow River drainage before it enters Seminoe, the Laramie River drainage, the Horse Creek drainage, and the South Platte drainage.  When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in southeast Wyoming.  I'll take a look at past posts and make sure I get caught up for this year. I am excited about once again participating in the Ice Shanty community.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 08, 2014, 11:10 AM
Why do all the rainbows in granite and crystal reservoirs look so sickly?  Is there no feed in those lakes.  The browns look fat and healthy.  Are there never any rainbows that holdover from year to year in that lake. Seems like every fish you catch is a mirror image of the last one, 9 inches long and skinny as a pencil.

Dear SDFlagChaser,
Annually Granite Reservoir is stocked with around 30,000 catchable (8-10 inches) rainbow trout and some cutthroat trout subspecies. In addition, 5,000 advanced fingerling (3-5 inches) brown trout are also stocked. Granite Reservoir and Crystal Reservoir are both popular fisheries, our last creel survey in 2004 estimated over 6,000 anglers spent over 30,000 hours fishing Granite Reservoir from April through September in 2004. These anglers caught almost 26,000 stocked catchable rainbow trout, with over half harvested. Their catch rate was 0.84 rainbow trout/hour and around 70% of anglers interviewed were satisfied to very satisfied with their angling experience. Our Fish Culture Section spends a considerable amount of their time raising catchable trout for waters like Granite and Crystal and they do a great job. I'm sorry that you felt the trout you caught looked sickly and skinny. Trout stocked into Granite Reservoir do not grow as the water is extremely unproductive as it enters and leaves quickly, which doesn't allow for zooplankton to establish and be abundant, which really drives trout and other game fish growth. However, by stocking catchable trout we can serve the anglers at these waters with quality fish, high catch rates, and and overall great angling experience. We have found that brown trout have far better growth rates, due to the abundance of crayfish and smaller suckers, yellow perch. These browns provide anglers with the opportunity to catch larger fish as well as the annual brood cull rainbow trout that we stock every winter. These brood culls were just stocked recently. If you are interested to talking more about the management of these waters, please give me a call at the Laramie WGFD Office, send me a message on this site, or email to [email protected], stop by to chat, or I'm always up to meet and discuss things over coffee.   

Sincerly,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 08, 2014, 11:15 AM
Could we get the Game and Fish to stock some walleye in Granite reservoir between Laramie and Cheyenne?  Someone put a few in there illegally over the years and someone caught a 10lb+ fish out of there a few years ago?

You recently put in 500 or so lake trout... I think the majority of them were harvested...  With perch, crawfish, suckers and planter rainbows as forage.... couldn't granite provide some interesting walleye fishing if you stocked 500-1,000 walleyes in there?  They obviously can do well in this lake.  It would provide anglers in the Laramie and Cheyenne region a closer place to fish for them too.

I don't think you'll see very many people complain about walleye in there... in fact it could increase fishing interest big time.

Dear GemCitySlayer,
I always appreciate your thoughts, concerns, and opinions on waters in the Laramie Fisheries Management Region. Granite and Crystal reservoirs are both important waters within our region. I would really like to answer some of your questions and concerns in person, please read my response to SDFlagChaser and contact me so we can discuss it further.
Sincerely,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Catfishking on Dec 08, 2014, 11:30 AM
I had a question about granite is there any Kokanee salmon in the lake and if there is how many are stocked each year thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 08, 2014, 11:39 AM
I had a question about granite is there any Kokanee salmon in the lake and if there is how many are stocked each year thanks
DearCatfishking,
Stocking kokanee in Granite Reservoir was not effective.  Around 20,000 fingerling (2-3 inches) kokanee were stocked in 1991, 1993 and 1995 through 1998. A creel survey conducted in 1995 estimated anglers caught only 164 kokanee May through June of that year.  No kokanee were reported caught in the 2004 creel. Given the poor return to anglers creel and poor growth, due to the low abundance of zooplankton (see reply to SDFlagChaser), it was determined that stocking should not be resumed.
Sincerely,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Soda Buttes Lake
Post by: WyoDoc on Dec 12, 2014, 11:08 AM
Hi WGFD fisheries folks,

Questions about Soda Buttes lake in Albany County.  Is there any way/are there any plans to flush the lake a little bit?  Is the water there alkaline/saline or both?  It's turning into a fun lake to fish with some nice trout caught, but never builds much ice and is pretty hard on equipment (the white crusts that grow on augers, rods, line, lures, my boots, the sled, etc.!).  How long do fish actually survive in the lake?  And just FYI - I've caught a few decent trout there (3+ lb) with stomachs filled with immature tiger salamanders. 

Thanks much for any answers.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Dec 13, 2014, 07:53 AM
Why does the GFP not stock fish in Crow Creek that runs through Cheyenne?  Sure, some parts of it are a bit slow and probably polluted, but I have seen big browns live in much worse water.    Looks like it would be an awesome fishery to me.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Dec 14, 2014, 01:49 PM
I just read the regulations from the Game & Fish effective January 1, 2015, and noticed the change to small and largemouth bass at Grayrocks (thumbs up!), but more interestingly the creel and size restrictions for Northern pike & Tiger Musky...limit of 3 and 30" minimum length waived. My two questions are: 1) Is the mention of Northerns an admission of their presence in Grayrocks water? and 2) Was the tiger musky program not working as planned? Thank you.
Title: Re: Soda Buttes Lake
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 15, 2014, 10:42 AM
Hi WGFD fisheries folks,

Questions about Soda Buttes lake in Albany County.  Is there any way/are there any plans to flush the lake a little bit?  Is the water there alkaline/saline or both?  It's turning into a fun lake to fish with some nice trout caught, but never builds much ice and is pretty hard on equipment (the white crusts that grow on augers, rods, line, lures, my boots, the sled, etc.!).  How long do fish actually survive in the lake?  And just FYI - I've caught a few decent trout there (3+ lb) with stomachs filled with immature tiger salamanders. 

Thanks much for any answers.

Dear WyoDoc,

Are you talking about Twin Buttes Reservoir?

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 15, 2014, 11:16 AM
I just read the regulations from the Game & Fish effective January 1, 2015, and noticed the change to small and largemouth bass at Grayrocks (thumbs up!), but more interestingly the creel and size restrictions for Northern pike & Tiger Musky...limit of 3 and 30" minimum length waived. My two questions are: 1) Is the mention of Northerns an admission of their presence in Grayrocks water? and 2) Was the tiger musky program not working as planned? Thank you.
Dear akaakira,
Tiger muskie were stocked in 1985, 1986, 1989, and 1991. Stocking ceased after 1991 due to public input, difficulty in getting an out-of-state source, and costs. The WGFD was able to secure a good source for tiger muskie recently and stocking throughout the state resumed in 2012 and one of those waters was Grayrocks Reservoir. Almost 4,800 6-8 inch tiger muskie were stocked into Grayrocks in 2012. They were stocked to once again assist with control of nongame fish and provide a limited trophy component to the fishery. During the summer of 2012 two anglers reported catching Northern Pike (around 28 inches in length) in Grayrocks Reservoir, but a non-descript picture and word of mouth were the only confirmation. Again, in 2013, there were angler reports of Northern Pike being caught in Grayrocks Reservoir and one fish was visually identified by the Laramie Fisheries Management Crew as a Northern Pike, it was 32 inches long and weighed over 7 pounds. Otoliths and other aging structures were collected from that fish and efforts using otolith microchemistry are ongoing to assist with identifying the source water for this introduced species. The establishment of Northern Pike in Grayrocks Reservoir would alter the current predator/prey dynamics of the fishery. Regardless of how Northern Pike may have entered Grayrocks Reservoir, the Laramie Fisheries Management Crew is addressing it with regulation changes and education. As stated above, the establishment of Northern Pike, and if they were to successfully reproduce, would alter the dynamics of the reservoir, which is currently is in a good place in regards to Walleye abundance and catch rates. According to recent angler interviews, Walleye continue to be the preferred fish for anglers at Grayrocks Reservoir. Tiger muskie are sterile and their numbers can be controlled through stocking. We have chosen, for now, to eliminate the 30-inch minimum for Northern Pike and tiger muskie, until their population dynamics and potential for cross breeding can be better understood. Signs at major access points and/or boat ramps will be installed this coming spring to alert anglers to the presence of both species and how to proceed if they catch a Northern Pike. Anglers will be encouraged to harvest all Northern Pike caught. Sampling will continue in the spring and fall, annually, to continue to try to address a number of population dynamics issues of Northern Pike in Grayrocks Reservoir. If Northern Pike do not become established, resuming the stocking of tiger muskie can then be reevaluated. As always, myself or any of the fisheries biologists would be more than willing to talk about this issue over the phone (307) 745-4046. 
Sincerely,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 15, 2014, 12:12 PM
Why does the GFP not stock fish in Crow Creek that runs through Cheyenne?  Sure, some parts of it are a bit slow and probably polluted, but I have seen big browns live in much worse water.    Looks like it would be an awesome fishery to me.
Dear SDFlagChaser,
The Laramie Fisheries Management Crew has tried for almost thirty years to establish brown trout in various sections of Crow Creek through Cheyenne. More recently (last ten years) our Fish Division is eliminating stream stocking where natural reproduction cannot sustain the fishery and focusing our fish culture efforts on standing waters. Our Laramie Fisheries Management Crew has sampled Crow Creek numerous times over the last ten years and have found minimal to no reproduction of brown trout in the various sections of Crow Creek that have been stocked in the past. The section that has most recently been stocked is on the Wyoming Hereford Ranch, the Ranch is supposed to grant permission to fish. Brown trout will not be stocked in the future, given the current data we have on their success in Crow Creek. If something were to change in terms of habitat, water temperature, or amount of water available, stocking of trout could then be reevaluated.
Sincerely,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Dec 15, 2014, 12:29 PM
Thanks for the quick response. If trout wont do well in there, I vote for carp!!  I have been looking for a close spot to fly fish for them. I know this would never happen, but a guy can dream, right?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Dec 15, 2014, 04:27 PM
Indeed, thanks for the info. I understand completely. When I read that, I knew something was wrong. What you said makes perfect sense, and we anglers appreciate your efforts and actions. It's too bad some "bucket biologist" felt it necessary to overstep the tiger musky program with the Northerns...barely had enough time to see it's effectiveness. Thanks to the guys in red for genuinely caring for the best interest of our fisheries.
Title: Re: Soda Buttes Lake
Post by: WyoDoc on Dec 16, 2014, 12:40 AM
Dear WyoDoc,

Are you talking about Twin Buttes Reservoir?

WGFDFishBioLaramie

Hi WGFD - Yep, sorry, had a brain fart.  Asking about Twin Buttes next to Hattie. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Fishboy on Dec 19, 2014, 08:16 PM
I was wondering about Walleye numbers in Healy Reservoir, Johnson Co. According the the 2011 regional newsletter there was 48 transplanted from Desmet, and on the fishing guide on the Wyoming game and fish department that is a species found in that body of water. However I never hear about anyone catching one. I've never caught one. I can't find any recent fishing surveys on their numbers either. I know there are Tiger musky now in healy based on the 2014 regional newsletter, but they don't show up as a species on the fishing guide in healy. Thank you for making yourselves available for this Q&A on ice shanty. Much appreciate by this angler, and I hope to continue having the privilege.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 22, 2014, 10:01 AM
I was wondering about Walleye numbers in Healy Reservoir, Johnson Co. According the the 2011 regional newsletter there was 48 transplanted from Desmet, and on the fishing guide on the Wyoming game and fish department that is a species found in that body of water. However I never hear about anyone catching one. I've never caught one. I can't find any recent fishing surveys on their numbers either. I know there are Tiger musky now in healy based on the 2014 regional newsletter, but they don't show up as a species on the fishing guide in healy. Thank you for making yourselves available for this Q&A on ice shanty. Much appreciate by this angler, and I hope to continue having the privilege.
Fishboy, thanks for the question. The walleye numbers in Healy are low. Back in 2009, prior to obtaining a new tiger musky source, we started moving walleye from DeSmet to Healy so they could prey upon the over abundant perch. From 2009 thru 2012 we moved a total of 70 walleye. We soon found that this was a very difficult task; to catch walleye at DeSmet, hope they were alive in our nets, then keep them alive and move them to Healy. To date, we still have not documented any natural reproduction from the transplanted walleye. I have heard a rumor or two about the occasional walleye being caught at Healy, but I certainly wouldn't count on finding any.

 In October 2012 we were able to get tiger musky stocked so we have given up on transplanting walleye to Healy. The goal with transplanting walleye or stocking the tiger musky is to improve to overall quality of the perch fishery (i.e. reduce number, but improve size and condition). It will likely take a few more years  before we notice any significant changes as a result of stocking the musky. Our goal is to get the average length of perch caught in our gill nets up to 8 inches. Right now they are around 7 inches on average.

Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: msmith1956 on Dec 26, 2014, 03:11 PM
Could game & fish provide a list or let us know where to obtain the list of statewide minnow dealers when the new regulation comes into effect the first of the year? Maybe it could be published on Ice Shanty  Wyoming bait shops
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Dec 29, 2014, 01:09 PM
Hey guys, we are very fortunate to have a representative from the Wyoming Game and Fish take the time to respond to serious queries made here by our members. The G&F have plenty of things to do, and replying to questions on our site is something they take the time to do for us, and we thank them.

So please keep this thread clear of the "nothing to add" humor cracks. The G&F rep shouldn't have to wade through these nonsense posts to respond to others. Thanks for understanding and thanks to the G&F for swinging through when they can.

- wyoutdoors  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: remme280 on Dec 29, 2014, 04:27 PM
question on # of hooks one can use. in the rules in says no more than 3 single hooked devices per line. does that mean a person could use say 2 or 3 treble hooks on a tip up for instance. or would one treble hook be 3 hooks?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Lowens110 on Dec 29, 2014, 08:41 PM
question on # of hooks one can use. in the rules in says no more than 3 single hooked devices per line. does that mean a person could use say 2 or 3 treble hooks on a tip up for instance. or would one treble hook be 3 hooks?
if one trebel hook was 3 hooks wouldn't you not be allowed to use the majority of lures like the RAPALA or other similar crank baits? I too am curious about the # of hooks thanks for the post remme
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: remme280 on Dec 30, 2014, 01:05 PM
Its the wording single hooked devices that starts my confusion. Because like a chubby darter has 2 trebles but is only one device.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Fishboy on Dec 30, 2014, 09:58 PM
Was hoping I could ask you about baitfish, and a seining license. I've tried doing my homework but really don't know if the following scenario is legal or not. I live in Johnson Co. I want to use dead baitfish on Healy Reservoir or Lake Desmet. Could I, if I had the seining license, trap baitfish on any old pond. Kill them on sight, then use them on either body of water as just bait? Also it seems to me, per the regulations, that neither body of water is allowed to be used for the seining of live baitfish, even though there's special ice fishing provisions. Am I correct it this thought? Thanks again for offering this to us here at ice shanty Wyoming! P.S. 1 more thing if I may, is there information somewhere on what species may be used for baitfish? All game fish are out of course, and the brook stickleback must be dispatched at all cost, but what about suckers, carp? Thanks again!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Dec 31, 2014, 09:20 PM
I have answer and will try and copy paste. Read page 8 in the regs book I think

Dear fishm_n,

Looking at the Magic website and the product I would consider these products, especially the minnows as dead baitfish. The use of dead baitfish is covered on page 8 of the new 2015 WY Fishing Regulation book. What is says, is "Dead baitfish may be used as bait. Restrictions on the used of dead baitfish are designated within the regulations for the specific drainage areas." For example Area 1 as some restrictions on the use of dead baitfish within Grand Teton National Park. You also could not use these where there is a regulation that is for artificial flies and lures only. Since they are dead, there are no issues with transporting them into WY.

, I did ask a Game Warden about this issue, and this was also their take.

Does that answer your first question?

WGFDFishBioLaramie

If you have the 2015 book or get your hands on it, it sounds like page 8 will clear up your answers.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: RSice on Jan 03, 2015, 09:57 AM
Just wondering why no crappie or perch are stocked in or around sweetwater county? and would they be considered a beneficial or detramental speices to have in say Flaming Gorge? i know myself and some of my fishing friends would love a place near by to catch some good pan fish esp. on the ice.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishsqueezer on Jan 05, 2015, 02:19 PM
I can take a stab at this one.  I don't manage the Gorge specifically, but I am responsible for many of the waters upstream and they share many characteristics.  You are right, there are political reasons for not introducing perch and crappie into waters in the Green River drainage.  Wyoming is a signatory member of the Colorado River endangered fish recovery program and has agreed against further introduction of predatory fish in the drainage.  We have made a few exceptions, like tiger trout and muskie for example, but these are isolated examples of sterile hybrids and wouldn't have the same widespread impacts downstream and throughout the system. 
More importantly though, are the biological/ecological impacts of fish such as crappie and perch.  Most of the Green River drainage, and all of Western Wyoming for that matter, is marginal habitat for coolwater and warmwater species such as perch, walleye, sunfish, etc.  Though these species in particular would probably fair ok, the problem with managing all of those mouths is keeping them fed, and in Western Wyoming, production of forage for these species of fish would likely come down to trout and salmon.  In the Gorge for example, introduction of perch or crappie especially, would totally eliminate natural reproduction and recruitment of kokanee.  Similarly for most other waters in the drainage, there just aren't suitable locations for them.
Thanks for the question.

Darren Rhea
Fisheries Biologist
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WYIfish on Jan 05, 2015, 09:00 PM
I can take a stab at this one.  I don't manage the Gorge specifically, but I am responsible for many of the waters upstream and they share many characteristics.  You are right, there are political reasons for not introducing perch and crappie into waters in the Green River drainage.  Wyoming is a signatory member of the Colorado River endangered fish recovery program and has agreed against further introduction of predatory fish in the drainage.  We have made a few exceptions, like tiger trout and muskie for example, but these are isolated examples of sterile hybrids and wouldn't have the same widespread impacts downstream and throughout the system. 
More importantly though, are the biological/ecological impacts of fish such as crappie and perch.  Most of the Green River drainage, and all of Western Wyoming for that matter, is marginal habitat for coolwater and warmwater species such as perch, walleye, sunfish, etc.  Though these species in particular would probably fair ok, the problem with managing all of those mouths is keeping them fed, and in Western Wyoming, production of forage for these species of fish would likely come down to trout and salmon.  In the Gorge for example, introduction of perch or crappie especially, would totally eliminate natural reproduction and recruitment of kokanee.  Similarly for most other waters in the drainage, there just aren't suitable locations for them.
Thanks for the question.

Darren Rhea
Fisheries Biologist

Your comments are greatly appreciated.  I know from experience that Stienaker at Vernal is crazy full of nice gills this time of year.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Jan 06, 2015, 01:31 PM

Our Wyoming Game and Fish has offered to volunteer their valuable time to answer our questions. Please keep in mind that their time on the site is very limited, and that not all questions may be answered. Hopefully this thread can be used by both sides to gain valuable insight. Please maintain the Q&A nature of the thread by reserving discussion for separate threads.

All G&F employees are invited to use the thread as a resource to share information, news and events affecting Wyoming sportsmen.

On behalf of our members, I thank the Wyoming G&F for taking the time to contribute to the site and it's members.
Thanks,
Mod Team
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 06, 2015, 02:21 PM
Was hoping I could ask you about baitfish, and a seining license. I've tried doing my homework but really don't know if the following scenario is legal or not. I live in Johnson Co. I want to use dead baitfish on Healy Reservoir or Lake Desmet. Could I, if I had the seining license, trap baitfish on any old pond. Kill them on sight, then use them on either body of water as just bait? Also it seems to me, per the regulations, that neither body of water is allowed to be used for the seining of live baitfish, even though there's special ice fishing provisions. Am I correct it this thought? Thanks again for offering this to us here at ice shanty Wyoming! P.S. 1 more thing if I may, is there information somewhere on what species may be used for baitfish? All game fish are out of course, and the brook stickleback must be dispatched at all cost, but what about suckers, carp? Thanks again!
Fishboy, thanks for the question. The only seining/trapping license available in Area 3 is for the Belle Fourche River and/or Keyhole Reservoir. So you are not allowed to seine or trap at Healy or DeSmet. While the statewide certified minnows are allowed at both Healy and DeSmet, DeSmet and Keyhole are the only waters in Area 3 that have the Special Ice Fishing Provision (6 rods/tip-ups), so at Healy you are only allowed 2 rods/tip-ups. 

We do not have a specific list as to what species can by used as baitfish. As long as they are nongame fish (suckers, carp, shiners, chubs) you can use them as dead bait where the use of such is allowed. So for Healy or DeSmet, you would have to catch carp or suckers hook and line, or buy a seining/trapping license for the Belle Fourche, and kill them before transport to Healy or DeSmet. Although, if you get your hands on the certified minnows Empire Guesthouse in Pine Haven, or the Story Store, you can use live minnows at Healy and DeSmet. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: herf69 on Jan 07, 2015, 01:52 PM
Hello Game and Fish.
I have a question about fishing East Allen Lake near Medicine Bow, WY.  I am wondering how this lake is to ice fish?  I would like to catch a Bonneville Cutthroat Trout.  I never hear of anyone fishing this lake, and I saw that the lake was stocking 2013.  Was the lake stocked in 2014 with Bonneville Cutthroat Trout?  Also, I was wondering if you could fish with live minnows in the lake?  And another question, related to catching a Bonneville Cutthroat Trout, I am from Denver, CO; and I do want to catch a Bonneville Cutthroat Trout, is East Allen Lake my best bet for lakes that are relatively close or should I look else where?
Thanks for your time
Ty
Title: Re: Twin Buttes Lake
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 12, 2015, 12:24 PM
Hi WGFD fisheries folks,

Questions about Soda Buttes lake in Albany County.  Is there any way/are there any plans to flush the lake a little bit?  Is the water there alkaline/saline or both?  It's turning into a fun lake to fish with some nice trout caught, but never builds much ice and is pretty hard on equipment (the white crusts that grow on augers, rods, line, lures, my boots, the sled, etc.!).  How long do fish actually survive in the lake?  And just FYI - I've caught a few decent trout there (3+ lb) with stomachs filled with immature tiger salamanders. 

Thanks much for any answers.

Dear WyoDoc,

Twin Buttes Reservoir is a natural depression, which can't be drained, and the water it receives to keep it full comes from the canal from Lake Hattie. In addition, there is a natural drainage that flows water into the lake on the south shoreline from snow melt or during spring storms. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department owns 600 acre feet of water from Lake Hattie that is transferred to Twin Buttes annually when Lake Hattie is full enough to divert water to the canal. This input of water from Lake Hattie can really help dilute and lower the salinity levels at Twin Buttes Reservoir. When Lake Hattie is low, water is not diverted to Twin Buttes and as the water recedes from evaporation the salinity level rises. We have measured it at levels that approach sea water, this was in 2008 after 9 years of not receiving water from Lake Hattie. In 2009, we suspected that high salinity levels were thought to be the cause of decreased growth in rainbow trout and the decline in the abundance of rainbow trout in Twin Buttes.  A water sample taken in 2008 and 2009 confirmed the reservoir had a high salinity level and that the high level may be causing stress to stocked fish.  Sampling was conducted in 2009 before the reservoir was stocked to determine fish survival from the prior years stocking.  The reservoir was stocked in 2008 with 45,000 fingerling rainbow trout, but no fish from this stocked cohort were caught in 2009 sampling.  In addition to sampling, live-cars were used to hold sentinel rainbow trout in the reservoir.  These fish were checked periodically within a 24-hour time period to determine their survival post-stocking, a control set of sentinel fish were held in a live-car at Meeboer Lake for comparison.  This experiment was conducted twice at Twin Buttes Reservoir (April 13 and April 15) and once at Meeboer Lake (April 15).  Sentinel rainbow trout survival post-stocking at Twin Buttes Reservoir was poor, whereas all sentinel fish survived being held at Meeboer Lake.  We made the decision in 2009 not to stock fish due to the high salinity. Since 2010, water levels have improved and Lake Hattie is once again supplying water to Twin Buttes and salinity levels are much lower, but still higher than surrounding waters. Currently, we have great rainbow trout survival post-stocking and are once again stocking brown trout into Twin Buttes Reservoir. Let me know if you have further questions.

Sincerely,
WGFDFishBioLaramie   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 12, 2015, 01:27 PM
Hello Game and Fish.
I have a question about fishing East Allen Lake near Medicine Bow, WY.  I am wondering how this lake is to ice fish?  I would like to catch a Bonneville Cutthroat Trout.  I never hear of anyone fishing this lake, and I saw that the lake was stocking 2013.  Was the lake stocked in 2014 with Bonneville Cutthroat Trout?  Also, I was wondering if you could fish with live minnows in the lake?  And another question, related to catching a Bonneville Cutthroat Trout, I am from Denver, CO; and I do want to catch a Bonneville Cutthroat Trout, is East Allen Lake my best bet for lakes that are relatively close or should I look else where?
Thanks for your time
Ty

Dear herf69,

Thanks for your interest in East Allen Lake, near Medicine Bow, WY. We did stock 7,800 4-inch tiger trout into East Allen Lake in 2013. The lake was not stocked in 2014 due to budget cuts and you can not use live bait there. In the past 15-years or so, Rainbow Trout and Bear River Cutthroat Trout have been the predominate fish stocked into East Allen. However, post-stocking survival over the last 8 years has been very low. We have collected numerous water samples from the lake over the last number of years as well as testing basic water chemistry annually and nothing has stood out that would indicate why fish are not surviving after being stocked. Now, game fish might not of been surviving, but there are abundant fathead minnows, brook stickleback, and salamanders that have been surviving well in the lake. Our hope was that tiger trout would take advantage of these readily available prey items, grow to large sizes, and create some interest again in the fishery. When we sampled the lake last year we did not catch any tiger trout. They still could be in there thriving, but we just don't know yet. We did catch 2 Rainbow Trout that were 16 inches in our 2014 sampling. Hopefully, sampling in 2015 will provide us with a better picture. In terms of Bear River Cutthroat Trout (aka Bonneville Cutthroat), your best bet would be to wait until July and fish Albany South Twin Lake in the Snowy Range. Their abundance in Albany South Twin Lake had been low the last couple of years, but is right now on the rebound and would be a great place to catch a Bear River in 2015. You can access the trailhead at Big Brooklyn Lake. Easy hike about 1.5 miles. We also stock Bear River's in Lake Hattie, but we stock them in fewer numbers when compared to Rainbow Trout.

Sincerely,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: herf69 on Jan 12, 2015, 02:08 PM
Thank you WGFD
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 15, 2015, 10:05 AM
Did the WGF department stock tiger trout into the Narrows Reservoir?  (SW WY)

Dear Gemcityslayer,

This is outside of my management area, but I don't believe there is a Green River biologist on shanty yet. Looking at our stocking database, 9,000 tiger trout were stocked into Woodruff Narrows Reservoir in June 2014. They were about 3 inches when stocked.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Is Paliades Reservoir stocked?
Post by: icepisces on Jan 15, 2015, 11:16 AM
I have read Game and Fish has not stocked the reservoir since the 1970's ?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 2473fish on Jan 20, 2015, 10:58 AM
Hi Game & Fish,

Got a few questions concerning Lake DeSmet:

1)   With the reports and looks to be some "proof" of a couple Lake Trout being caught at Lake Desmet this winter, is it possible that these made their way into the water when  filling up the lake through the Piney Creek Canal years back and spawning has taken place?
2)   Or is it another illegal stocking has accord? 
3)   Through the years of netting practices done through the G&F at the Lake has a Lake Trout been netted?
4)   Is this a concern for the fishery down the road or (probably) to early to tell?

Thanks I appreciate your time!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 20, 2015, 12:34 PM
Hi Game & Fish,

Got a few questions concerning Lake DeSmet:

1)   With the reports and looks to be some "proof" of a couple Lake Trout being caught at Lake Desmet this winter, is it possible that these made their way into the water when  filling up the lake through the Piney Creek Canal years back and spawning has taken place?
2)   Or is it another illegal stocking has accord? 
3)   Through the years of netting practices done through the G&F at the Lake has a Lake Trout been netted?
4)   Is this a concern for the fishery down the road or (probably) to early to tell?

Thanks I appreciate your time!
Good questions. Just got more proof of lake trout being caught this winter with a few photos delivered to me today. The only stocking records for lake trout in Lake DeSmet was in 1936, so it is quite possible for these lake trout to find their way in through the canal. Whether these come from the lakes above that have lake trout, or some of these are escapees from the Story Hatchery is difficult to say. What lake trout are present should be able to reproduce, but this is the first year we've seen smaller lakers. I would highly doubt that this is an illegal stocking. The closest water with lake trout would be Kearney Reservoir and I doubt they would survive the ATV ride. We sample lake trout on occasion with our sampling gear, but in the eight years I've been here, we've put our hands on 5 of them. The fish we found were large, 4 to 25 pounds. We do not set our nets to specifically catch lake trout, so I guess it's difficult for us to say what the population looks like. On the other hand, if the lake trout population was high, we would likely sample more than 5 in eight years. At this point I don't believe that there is any concern. The population of lake trout is likely low and we stock catchable sized trout to get around the walleye (which was illegally introduced). These catchables should be able to avoid lake trout as well.  Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 2473fish on Jan 20, 2015, 01:43 PM
I appreciate the feedback and time the G&F puts forward here! Definitely an interesting scenario with the Lakers! Thanks Again!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: zjlooney on Jan 20, 2015, 03:01 PM
Good questions. Just got more proof of lake trout being caught this winter with a few photos delivered to me today. The only stocking records for lake trout in Lake DeSmet was in 1936, so it is quite possible for these lake trout to find their way in through the canal. Whether these come from the lakes above that have lake trout, or some of these are escapees from the Story Hatchery is difficult to say. What lake trout are present should be able to reproduce, but this is the first year we've seen smaller lakers. I would highly doubt that this is an illegal stocking. The closest water with lake trout would be Kearney Reservoir and I doubt they would survive the ATV ride. We sample lake trout on occasion with our sampling gear, but in the eight years I've been here, we've put our hands on 5 of them. The fish we found were large, 4 to 25 pounds. We do not set our nets to specifically catch lake trout, so I guess it's difficult for us to say what the population looks like. On the other hand, if the lake trout population was high, we would likely sample more than 5 in eight years. At this point I don't believe that there is any concern. The population of lake trout is likely low and we stock catchable sized trout to get around the walleye (which was illegally introduced). These catchables should be able to avoid lake trout as well.  Hope this helps.

Are the lake trout viewed as detrimental to the fishery?  I know De Smet has the depth for them, but would it have a noticeable effect on the rainbows, cutthroats, and browns?  I've often wondered why there is not a large population of lake trout.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Jan 20, 2015, 09:36 PM
Another one for Desmet. Has the WYGF ever discussed the idea of commencing lake trout stocking in the future?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 23, 2015, 08:32 AM
Are the lake trout viewed as detrimental to the fishery?  I know De Smet has the depth for them, but would it have a noticeable effect on the rainbows, cutthroats, and browns?  I've often wondered why there is not a large population of lake trout.
At this point we don't believe that there is a big enough population to have any noticeable impact on our stocked fish. We sample DeSmet annually, so hopefully we will be able to notice any changes.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 23, 2015, 08:42 AM
Another one for Desmet. Has the WYGF ever discussed the idea of commencing lake trout stocking in the future?
At this point, we have not discussed introducing lake trout in larger numbers. We already have an introduced predator with the walleye (albeit illegal), and we also have a decent number of very large brown trout (upwards of 16lbs is what I've personally seen). Another predator who can put down a ton of groceries may not be the best idea.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Jan 23, 2015, 02:56 PM
Thank you for taking the time to respond. We appreciate your input.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: cold feet82901 on Jan 27, 2015, 03:38 PM
did they plant walleye in bridger pond in sweet water county(or is it just a rumer)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Jan 28, 2015, 08:19 AM
As I understand, in the 1970s or 80s Ohrid trout were stocked in wy.
I saw a picture on facebook a couple weeks ago from Desmet of 2 "browns" that looked a whole  lot like Yugo's to me.
Were Ohrid trout ever stocked in Desmet back years ago?

Thanks.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: theo9805 on Jan 28, 2015, 03:26 PM
I'll throw up another one quickly that has been on my mind.  Some states have websites you can go to and look and see what species were stocked, when, and how many in every body of water in that particular state.  I love this feature (use it often in Utah). 

Is there any chance we could see a feature like this for Wyoming?  It sure is nice being able to see what new species are stocked each year, how many, etc....  Helps plan future fishing trips.

+1
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyoming_Ice on Jan 28, 2015, 08:14 PM
I apologize if this topic has already been covered. But here we go....

 Can you guys tell me why corn is now allowed as bait ? The whys and I would like to know if fish ( Trout) can digest it.

 My friend caught a nice rainbow Sunday on Viva Naughton. When he gutted it, it's stomach was PACKED FULL of corn! We could not believe how of the stuff was in this fish.

 I hate to bring this up again. I know it's opening a can... but I just can't understand why this " Bait " has become legal. 

Thanks in advanced    :tipup:

 Wyo Ice


Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 29, 2015, 08:48 AM
Thank you for answering our questions.  And thank you for continuing to stock Tiger Trout in WY!  They've quickly become my favorite trout to target... very aggressive fish that grows fast what else can you ask for.

My question:  The game and fish recently stocked 9,000 tiger trout fingerlings in The Narrows (SW WY).  I believe you guys stocked them in one other lake besides High Savery Reservoir (South Central WY). 

At this point in time, what other lakes have received Tiger Trout and what is the future of Tiger Trout in WY?  Looks like the trend might be to stock them in more waters.
Thanks for the question. Tiger trout have certainly become more popular in recent years and our hatchery system has improved the success of egg eye-up and hatching as well, so they are able to meet our requests. Here is the list. In the Green River region: Woodruff Res, Viva Naughton Res, Jim Bridger Pond, Naughton Plant Pond, High Savery Res, and Dirty Man Creek. In the Laramie Region: East Allen Lake. In the Lander Region: Upper Silas Lake, and Smith Lake. In the Sheridan Region: Cloud Peak Res, Willow Park Res, Weston Res, and Cook Lake.

In most cases, tiger trout were/are stocked in waters that are in need of a predator. Whether it's to prey upon stunted trout (Willow Park, Cloud Peak, Weston) or to prey upon undesirable fish such as suckers (High Savery). They can grow quickly and grow to large sizes (11+ pound state record from High Savery), but the future of using them in other waters will likely depend on how well they perform in these recently stocked waters. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 29, 2015, 08:53 AM
I'll throw up another one quickly that has been on my mind.  Some states have websites you can go to and look and see what species were stocked, when, and how many in every body of water in that particular state.  I love this feature (use it often in Utah). 

Is there any chance we could see a feature like this for Wyoming?  It sure is nice being able to see what new species are stocked each year, how many, etc....  Helps plan future fishing trips.
Another good question. The way I understand it, we will be exploring ways to improve our website to make it more user friendly. We are also talking about including links to regional pages. We have discussed what should go on these regional pages and one idea was a stocking list. This is still in the works, but I will try to keep folks updated if this comes to fruition.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 29, 2015, 09:19 AM
As I understand, in the 1970s or 80s Ohrid trout were stocked in wy.
I saw a picture on facebook a couple weeks ago from Desmet of 2 "browns" that looked a whole  lot like Yugo's to me.
Were Ohrid trout ever stocked in Desmet back years ago?

Thanks.
Possible, but not 100% sure. I looked up all of our stocking records for DeSmet, dating back to the 40's. Brown trout were stocked numerous times through the 80's and early 90's and periodically since. But there was no mention of strain of brown trout. The Ohrids were from Ohrid Lake in Yugoslavia. WGFD developed a brood stock and they were stocked in several places, but after several years there was no return to the sampling gear or to anglers, thus we discontinued the brood stock. One thing to remember, brown trout are native to Europe. And similar to rainbow, there are different strains (e.g., German, Ohrid, Yugoslavian). Hope this helps.
Title: Re: Is Paliades Reservoir stocked?
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 03, 2015, 12:58 PM
I have read Game and Fish has not stocked the reservoir since the 1970's ?

Dear icepisces,

The WGFD Fish Biologist out of Jackson in charge of the management of Palisades Reservoir wanted me to relay this message to you:

Palisades Reservoir is stocked every year with Snake River cutthroat trout.  This is a joint venture between Wyoming Game and Fish, Idaho Fish and Game, and the Fish and Wildlife Service.  In the past, 300,000 fingerling cutthroat were stocked each year, however, we never saw these fish returning to anglers.  Two years ago, we reduced the number of fish stocked to 100,000 but began stocking larger, 4 inch fish.  We are still waiting to see if these fish will be more available to anglers.

Thanks for your question,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WyOhawkeye on Feb 03, 2015, 06:35 PM
Any chance of making some sense of the minnow situation in wyoming if info could be made available on what farms are approved for distributing flatheads could they be sold anywhere like cheyenne, wheatland etc.  another thing from what I understand flatheads don't get over 3 inches and only eat plankton so they wouldnt hurt trout they would only be food.  I know they are great to get a pond going after stocking so what would they hurt. It just really sucks to have to drive to Douglas or sometimes glendo to get minnows they are the best ice fishing bait bar none in my opinion.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 05, 2015, 04:10 PM
Any chance of making some sense of the minnow situation in wyoming if info could be made available on what farms are approved for distributing flatheads could they be sold anywhere like cheyenne, wheatland etc.  another thing from what I understand flatheads don't get over 3 inches and only eat plankton so they wouldnt hurt trout they would only be food.  I know they are great to get a pond going after stocking so what would they hurt. It just really sucks to have to drive to Douglas or sometimes glendo to get minnows they are the best ice fishing bait bar none in my opinion.

Dear WyOhawkeye,

This topic would best be covered over the phone, if you are interested, please call one of the fish biologists at the Laramie Regional Office 745-4046 and we would be glad to talk with you about the regulation.

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Feb 05, 2015, 06:04 PM
Other than Keyhole, historically has there ever been any documented northern pike catches in any other WY fisheries?  A fellow fishermen asked me this question a few days ago. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Monarch8x8 on Feb 17, 2015, 02:49 PM
Other than Keyhole, historically has there ever been any documented northern pike catches in any other WY fisheries?  A fellow fishermen asked me this question a few days ago.

Yes.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 19, 2015, 08:55 AM
Other than Keyhole, historically has there ever been any documented northern pike catches in any other WY fisheries?  A fellow fishermen asked me this question a few days ago.
Keyhole is the only water that WGFD stocks northern pike in and the only water that northerns are managed. However, over the last couple years, pike have shown up in other locations. One of the locations was likely from an illegal introduction, while two of the waters were likely an accidental stocking (the pike likely came in with a load of walleye). Northern pike make a rare appearance in the Tongue River (they occasionally swim up the river from Tongue River Reservoir), and northern pike have made an appearance in the Little Snake River.  Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Feb 19, 2015, 12:48 PM
And greyrocks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Feb 19, 2015, 09:00 PM
And greyrocks

I think that was covered under "accidental introduction".

ClearCreek
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Kinkyline on Mar 01, 2015, 08:44 AM
   I would like to address what I feel is a watercraft safety question and that is why is there no speed limit on Alcova Lake? The boat traffic out there is out of control and a lot
 are not very respectful of others. It's just a matter of time till another catastrophe happens if speed is not regulated to prudent speed say 25-30 m.p.h. Thank you for your time in looking at this topic.
 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Mar 03, 2015, 11:49 PM
Has chumming always been legal in Wyoming or was the law changed within the past decade?

I've asked this here before but it is one thing I wish was different.  Any chance we could see yellow perch be used for bait?  We get to keep 50 of them don't see the harm in keeping a few dinky small ones for dead cut bait.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Mar 05, 2015, 10:53 AM
   I would like to address what I feel is a watercraft safety question and that is why is there no speed limit on Alcova Lake? The boat traffic out there is out of control and a lot
 are not very respectful of others. It's just a matter of time till another catastrophe happens if speed is not regulated to prudent speed say 25-30 m.p.h. Thank you for your time in looking at this topic.
Your best bet would be to call the Casper office and ask for one of the fish biologists. 473-3400
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Mar 05, 2015, 11:02 AM
Has chumming always been legal in Wyoming or was the law changed within the past decade?

I've asked this here before but it is one thing I wish was different.  Any chance we could see yellow perch be used for bait?  We get to keep 50 of them don't see the harm in keeping a few dinky small ones for dead cut bait.
Not sure about the chumming question. And the answer to your perch question is NO. Perch are a game fish. You are also allowed to keep 50 crappie, black bullhead, rock bass, bluegill, green sunfish, and freshwater drum (in combination). Just cause a fish is small, doesn't mean it won't be bigger some day. Plenty of other fish, nongame of course, that you can use for cut bait (suckers, carp, creek chubs etc...).
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: legend on Apr 08, 2015, 06:41 PM
thank you very much for your help this year, you have answered several questions for me that i did not ask. BRAVO !
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Fishboy on Oct 28, 2015, 11:39 AM
I have a question about kids. I understand they fish off the adults limit, and are not required to have a license under age. Do all the other rules apply to them equally as an adult. Specifically how many lines are they allowed? The adult is allowed 2(sometimes more in winter) are they also allowed 2? Thanks a bunch for this resource!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Nov 03, 2015, 11:58 AM
RESIDENT YOUTH
under 14 do not need a license and their creel limit is the same
as those requiring licenses.
NONRESIDENT YOUTH
under 14 do not need a license if accompanied by an adult
possessing a valid Wyoming fishing license; however, the
nonresident youth's creel limit shall be applied to and limited
by the fishing license held by the adult person in his/her
company. Nonresident youth under 14 that possess a valid
daily or nonresident youth annual fishing license may capture
and possess a full creel limit.

So with the youth residents they have their own creel limit for each day and can use as many poles as any licensed adult if they check their own lines, so they can use 2 poles in the summer, and up to 6 poles in the ice covered periods if allowed, hope this helps some.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Nov 25, 2015, 11:15 AM
With full reservoir levels around SE Wyoming I'm thinking the 2015/2016 ice fishing season will be great. Happy to be back on Ice Shanty and I look forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region  I will be happy to address all issues on fish management of waters you might frequent. When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in Southeast Wyoming. Laramie Plains Lakes anglers, remember there are aeration systems on Meeboer, Gelatt, and Alsop, be careful out there.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Nov 25, 2015, 12:15 PM
Have you guys ever done any population studies on the perch in granite and crystal, and has there ever been talk of managing those lakes to improved the perch fishing to give us guys in the SE some more options.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Nov 25, 2015, 02:56 PM
Glad to have you aboard WGFDFishBioLaramie! It's terrific you'll take the time to address and answer questions from the members and we do appreciate it. Here's to a great ice season!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Nov 25, 2015, 05:45 PM
 :thumbsup:
Glad to have you aboard WGFDFishBioLaramie! It's terrific you'll take the time to address and answer questions from the members and we do appreciate it. Here's to a great ice season!

X2  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Nov 27, 2015, 10:04 PM
WGFFishBio, is it possible to get an insight into Cook Lake, Crook Co. and how the Tiger Trout are doing? Will there be access this winter? Thank you.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Nov 29, 2015, 12:04 PM
WGFFishBio, is it possible to get an insight into Cook Lake, Crook Co. and how the Tiger Trout are doing? Will there be access this winter? Thank you.

I too would like an answer to this? Is there truly no access?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Nov 29, 2015, 06:53 PM
During the last two summers the Black Hills National Forest has closed the Cook Lake Recreation north of Sundance due to land slide concerns.  The area was open last winter.  The Forest Service believes the land slide concerns are diminished during freezing weather.

Some tiger trout were apparently caught last winter.  It is unknown at this time if the Forest Service will open the area this winter.

The Wyoming Game and Fish Dept. has decided not to stock fish in Cook Lake until the area can be open to anglers year around.

ClearCreek

 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: waltman121 on Dec 03, 2015, 09:08 PM
What determines how many rods you can fish?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Dec 04, 2015, 05:22 PM
What determines how many rods you can fish?

The simple answer is ice.  There are several waters that allow 6 poles when fishing through the ice.  But, I am thinking you are really asking what determines how a water gets on the the Special Winter Ice Fishing Provision list that is in the Fishing Regulations.  If a water is in that list you are allowed to use up to 6 poles when fishing through the ice. Looking at the list most of the waters are larger trout reservoirs or waters that have a warm/cool water fish population.

ClearCreek

 
Title: Re: Granite, Crystal, North Crow/Albany, Laramie
Post by: gemcityslayer on Dec 06, 2015, 03:35 PM
Went out for a few hours this morning. Ice was good in the causeway. Caught probabaly 8-10 perch and a couple sickly rainbows. Several other groups out. Both lakes are capped, but look thin

You're right the trout in there are sickly looking....I've fished all over this great state and frankly granite is really the only place I see trout in this poor of condition... It is pathetic and the game and fish should be ashamed of it.  I don't think they mismanage every body of water, but this one has potential that is being wasted in my opnion.  End rant.

I had to meet a friend on Happy Jack today and decided to try Granite since I was out there...  In previous years I've kind of enjoyed targeting the perch in Granite... I've caught some pretty nice ones in there and sometimes a dozen or two at a time if I'm lucky.  Anyways fished for about 30 mins... ice looked about 5-6"... had a few missed bites I'm pretty sure were perch, and pulled in half a dozen really runty trout... I kinda feel bad for these trout, they look like they are starving.

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 08, 2015, 11:40 AM
Have you guys ever done any population studies on the perch in granite and crystal, and has there ever been talk of managing those lakes to improved the perch fishing to give us guys in the SE some more options.

Dear SDFlagChaser,

We sampled Crystal Reservoir this year looking for yellow perch for mercury samples in order to provide up to date information on mercury concentrations in game fish. This is done throughout the state. While looking for yellow perch in Crystal, what we found was a decent abundance of larger perch from 10-12 inches in deeper water near the dam. Most perch I have seen out of Crystal have been much smaller, so this was a surprise. Not sure if they inhabitat that area during the ice fishing season, but if the ice is safe, might be worth a look. Back to your question, we have never done an estimate or really looked at abundance of perch in either Granite or Crystal. Our main management objective for those reservoirs is to maintain higher catch rates for stocked, catchable trout. However, I'm always interested in improving warm/cool water fisheries, mostly through habitat improvement. Christmas trees would be a good addition to the reservoirs and it can be discussed with the Cheyenne Board of Public Utilities, however those Christmas tree would take up space reserved for water storage, so it may be a non-starter. The other problem for perch in both of those reservoirs, is that they lack productivity, due to their operation. Water goes in and out of those reservoirs so fast that zooplankton growth is minimal and temperature is cold enough year round to restrict growth for species like perch. Some news for Granite and Crystal is that brood cull rainbow trout were recently stocked at both reservoirs.

Thanks for your question,

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Dirty P on Dec 09, 2015, 09:23 AM
thank you for your time WGFDFiahBioLaramie this is great info
Title: Re: Re: Granite, Crystal, North Crow/Albany, Laramie
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 11, 2015, 02:00 PM
You're right the trout in there are sickly looking....I've fished all over this great state and frankly granite is really the only place I see trout in this poor of condition... It is pathetic and the game and fish should be ashamed of it.  I don't think they mismanage every body of water, but this one has potential that is being wasted in my opnion.  End rant.

I had to meet a friend on Happy Jack today and decided to try Granite since I was out there...  In previous years I've kind of enjoyed targeting the perch in Granite... I've caught some pretty nice ones in there and sometimes a dozen or two at a time if I'm lucky.  Anyways fished for about 30 mins... ice looked about 5-6"... had a few missed bites I'm pretty sure were perch, and pulled in half a dozen really runty trout... I kinda feel bad for these trout, they look like they are starving.

Dear GemCitySlayer,

Granite Reservoir is your reservoir, we work hard at properly managing the reservoir based on its use and biological potential. Our job is to be good stewards of the aquatic resources SE Wyoming that you entrust to use, and Granite Reservoir is one of those. I am always game to hear how we could do better and would welcome that conversation if you would like to get together. Just let me know.

Take care,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Dec 11, 2015, 02:34 PM
Has GFP ever tried stocking fat heads in to granite or crystal?  There has to be a way to improve the forage base in those lakes.  Rapid City, SD gets its water from Pactola and Deerfield reservoirs in the Black Hills and they are both thriving fisheries. Both are very deep, cold water fisheries (sounds familiar) and they support lake trout up to 35 lbs, pike up to 30 lbs, nice crappie, perch, bluegills, largemouth bass, as well as rainbows and brown.   I know there is more that can be done with these two lakes.  I keep hearing about people catching more and more walleye in Gowdy Lakes and I pray that these will take off.   The sick rainbows that are currently in there make great forage for them. Also, the answer to anything regarding the little trout is usually something along the lines of "brood stock rainbows have been stocked."  Who wants to go catch a gross looking brooder?  I worked in trout hatcheries, the last thing I want to catch is a brood stock rainbow. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Dec 11, 2015, 02:36 PM
Also, thanks for taking the time to answer all these questions and put up with all of us. I worked for Mcnenny Hatchery in SD, and also the Dubois hatchery. I fully understand that these lakes are simply put and take fisheries, I just think something more can be done.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Dec 11, 2015, 07:34 PM
Flagchaser, the fatheads probably wouldn't survive long as they don't swim well or fast compared to game fish. Other minnows would work better like golden shiners. Curious what the native shiners are and what could be done to boost their populations? Suckers are a great forage base too.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 12, 2015, 01:52 PM
Has GFP ever tried stocking fat heads in to granite or crystal?  There has to be a way to improve the forage base in those lakes.  Rapid City, SD gets its water from Pactola and Deerfield reservoirs in the Black Hills and they are both thriving fisheries. Both are very deep, cold water fisheries (sounds familiar) and they support lake trout up to 35 lbs, pike up to 30 lbs, nice crappie, perch, bluegills, largemouth bass, as well as rainbows and brown.   I know there is more that can be done with these two lakes.  I keep hearing about people catching more and more walleye in Gowdy Lakes and I pray that these will take off.   The sick rainbows that are currently in there make great forage for them. Also, the answer to anything regarding the little trout is usually something along the lines of "brood stock rainbows have been stocked."  Who wants to go catch a gross looking brooder?  I worked in trout hatcheries, the last thing I want to catch is a brood stock rainbow.

Dear SDFlagChaser,

Just read your post from home and thanks for your thoughts on the fisheries at Curt Gowdy. These are great starting points for this topic and once back at work I'll dedicate some time to them and my response. Looking forward to continuing this discussion.

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Dec 13, 2015, 09:21 PM
Hello game and fish, Hole Tender just showed a pic of crappie off keyhole. Do we have two different type of crappie. White and Black? Yes
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 14, 2015, 09:14 AM
Hello game and fish, Hole Tender just showed a pic of crappie off keyhole. Do we have two different type of crappie. White and Black? Yes
Yes we do. As Clear Creek mentioned, both black and white crappie have been in Keyhole for decades. Black crappie tend to be the most numerous on a more consistent basis. However, every so often, we get big year classes of white crappie. White crappie tend to run bigger in size as well (at least at Keyhole). Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MJA on Dec 15, 2015, 05:48 AM
I'm very concerned about the tiger muskie stocked in middle depression. In your opinion how long before they make it into bass lake and boysen? Both lakes are down stream.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Hole Tender on Dec 15, 2015, 08:55 AM
They are sterile.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Maddog on Dec 16, 2015, 08:07 AM
Recently heard that tiger trout where stocked in the Sunshine lakes outside of Meeteetse. Is there any truth to this?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mallardmuncher on Dec 16, 2015, 08:30 AM
Yeah they stocked them in Lower spring of 15
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 16, 2015, 09:27 AM
Recently heard that tiger trout where stocked in the Sunshine lakes outside of Meeteetse. Is there any truth to this?
According to our database, Lower Sunshine Reservoir received 10,000 tiger trout in 2015. Call the Cody office should you have any additional questions on this topic at: 307-527-7125.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: msmith1956 on Dec 16, 2015, 12:01 PM
Is it legal for a licensed bait dealer to sell minnows at a location other than the address listed on there bait dealers license application, {on the ice at Keyhole Reservoir}
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Dec 16, 2015, 12:40 PM
Just want to thank the game and fish for putting in the effort / resources to stock tiger trout in Wyoming.  They grow fast, are really aggressive fish, and are beautiful too... (most of them) ;)  Hybrids can sometimes look really weird ;D

Is there any plans for them in the Laramie Region?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 16, 2015, 05:49 PM
Just want to thank the game and fish for putting in the effort / resources to stock tiger trout in Wyoming.  They grow fast, are really aggressive fish, and are beautiful too... (most of them) ;)  Hybrids can sometimes look really weird ;D

Is there any plans for them in the Laramie Region?

Dear Gemcityslayer,

We are currently trying to establish a tiger trout fishery at East Allen Lake, near Medicine Bow. 7,800 were stocked in 2013 and 2015. They are planned to also be stocked in 2016. There is ample forage in the lake and our expectations are that they will grow to large sizes, that being said we have not captured one in sampling gear post-stocking. There are a few other waters we will be considered this winter as well.

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: hump on Dec 16, 2015, 06:21 PM
Is there a forage base in Hawk Springs? The walleye always look skinny. I caught a tiny sunfish of some sort a long time ago but I don't know if they are suitable for walleye.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Dec 17, 2015, 10:33 AM
Is it legal for a licensed bait dealer to sell minnows at a location other than the address listed on there bait dealers license application, {on the ice at Keyhole Reservoir}
Good question and the answer is NO. Mobile minnow sales are not allowed. The reason for mobile minnow sales not being allowed is the fact that we can't control where the fish are coming from and/or going to. There is too much risk of getting fish in places where we don't want them. The entire baitfish regulation is set up to minimize the risk of moving fish where they are not wanted and can cause undesirable and irreversible ecological consequences.

Another note with this. Somebody selling anything at Keyhole would have to have permission from the State Park and be considered a concessionaire before they could sell anything (the Marina for instance).

Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Dec 17, 2015, 10:58 AM
The person that asked the question runs the bait shop at Keyhole.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: msmith1956 on Dec 17, 2015, 02:12 PM
The person that asked the question runs the bait shop at Keyhole.
Yes I am, the Empire Guesthouse in Pine Haven
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MJA on Dec 18, 2015, 09:01 AM
I'm very concerned about the tiger muskie stocked in middle depression. In your opinion how long before they make it into bass lake and boysen? Both lakes are down stream.
[/quot
Being sterile has nothing to do with down stream migration. Muskies are are ferocious pedator. Just curious to the impact on other species.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Dec 18, 2015, 09:23 AM
Hopefully they thrive. This state needs more predators like musky and pike.  Ever watched a pike run on a tip up?  It's awesone
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Rags777 on Dec 20, 2015, 01:11 PM
At what age do I need to buy my son a license to fish in Wyoming? he is 8 now and we live in Nebraska. any info would be greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyohunter on Dec 20, 2015, 01:42 PM
Any youth under the age of 14 does not need a fishing license if accompanied by a licensed Adult, that youths catch will be applied to the adults limit. Any youth under 14 may purchase a license and have their own creel limit.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Rags777 on Dec 20, 2015, 09:35 PM
thank you! that is what it thought, but just wanted to double check
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Dec 20, 2015, 10:13 PM
Any youth under the age of 14 does not need a fishing license if accompanied by a licensed Adult, that youths catch will be applied to the adults limit. Any youth under 14 may purchase a license and have their own creel limit.

What wyohunter posted is true for nonresident youth anglers. (The poster that asked the question was from Nebraska so that is probably why wyohunter answered that way he did - without mentioning resident vs. nonresident youth anglers.)

A Wyoming resident youth less than 14 years of age does not need a fishing license and can keep their legal limit of fish while fishing with or without a licensed adult angler.

ClearCreek

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Rags777 on Dec 21, 2015, 03:30 PM
thanks for the clarification! that's how it is in Nebraska as well. I guess while we are at it here I'll shoot ya another one. is he allowed to have his own set of poles out, or does he need to fish off of my pole allowance? hope that makes sense.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: appleye on Dec 21, 2015, 05:42 PM
He can use his own poles but he needs to have his name on each rod setup if using more than two, same with you
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Dec 21, 2015, 07:53 PM
He can use his own poles but he needs to have his name on each rod setup if using more than two, same with you

And, in addition to what appleye says, if the youth angler does have his own set of poles they have to set them out, bait them, tend them and fight the fish caught on those poles.

ClearCreek

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Rags777 on Dec 21, 2015, 08:16 PM
man you guys are awesome! we do a lot of fishing up that way during the summer (glendo, grayrocks, and pathfinder), but are just getting into the ice thing over there since there seems to be none here :) I sure do appreciate all the comments, don't want to get caught with my pants down!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Dirty P on Dec 23, 2015, 09:28 AM
my question is what is the over all perch population in Hattie or twin buttes. has any studies be done in last couple of year, any plans on stocking any or habit improvement. I remember the good ol days of hattie and twin buttes and would love to see these fisheries back to the glory days.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bsrkoacar on Jan 03, 2016, 10:54 AM
What are the chances of North Crow res being managed as a trophy tiger Muskie fishery? 1 fish over 36" minimum? It seems that Wyoming is missing out on a true trophy tiger Muskie fishery.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Jan 03, 2016, 12:19 PM
Years ago, I remember seeing flathead catfish listed as an available fish species in the North Platte River below Dave Johnston and then down to Glendo. We even have a state record for flatheads. However, you don't see them in any of the Game & Fish publications, or anywhere, for that matter. What happened to them? Thanks.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 05, 2016, 03:31 PM
my question is what is the over all perch population in Hattie or twin buttes. has any studies be done in last couple of year, any plans on stocking any or habit improvement. I remember the good ol days of hattie and twin buttes and would love to see these fisheries back to the glory days.

Dear Dirty P,

Our Fish Management Crew samples both Lake Hattie and Twin Buttes Reservoir on a frequent basis to continually evaluate our stocking strategies and the overall "health" of the fishery, i.e. average length, weight, condition of fish species present. We sample at the same sites and use the same gear every time we sample so our results are comparable across years. In terms of specific studies on Yellow Perch, there have not been any completed, but we have been tracking their relative abundance over the last number of decades through our regular sampling. Two strong year classes in 2003 and 2004 contributed to the strong Yellow Perch fishery in 2006 and 2007.  It is possible the strong 2004 year class created an overabundance of Yellow Perch ≥ 8 and ≤ 9 inches, which was evident in the 2007 and 2008 samples.  The consecutive strong Yellow Perch year-classes in 2003 and 2004 may have be competing for the same food resources, creating this bottle neck of 8-9 inch perch. The data supports the fact, just like other Yellow Perch fisheries, that the Lake Hattie Yellow Perch population exhibits variable recruitment, which leads to an inconsistent fishery. Another factor that may have caused a drastic reduction in the Yellow Perch population was the dramatic increase in the water level at Lake Hattie.  Based on our sampling data the relative abundance of perch remained consistent from 2004 through 2010, but the 2011 data showed a dramatic decline in perch numbers, which corresponds to an increase of >30 vertical feet of water added to the reservoir. The reservoir water level has remained somewhat consistent since then and our sampling data in 2015 showed an increase in the numbers of perch in the reservoir, with nearly half of the Yellow Perch captured in sampling gear in 2015 were >12 inches. If these large adults can reproduce successfully in enough numbers that some juvenile perch can survive to a size to escape predation, there may be an increase the in perch population over the next couple of years. Twin Buttes Reservoir receives its water from Lake Hattie and will get perch when there are enough numbers in Lake Hattie that enough perch get sucked down the canal and enter Twin Buttes. Habitat improvement in Lake Hattie is very difficult to plan for with the variable water levels and habitat structures added to the reservoir would take up storage space for water which the water rights are held by the Pioneer Canal District and Wheatland Irrigation District.

Hope this helps a little bit, if you have further questions or what to discuss this more, feel free to send me a message on this site.

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie     
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 05, 2016, 03:36 PM
What are the chances of North Crow res being managed as a trophy tiger Muskie fishery? 1 fish over 36" minimum? It seems that Wyoming is missing out on a true trophy tiger Muskie fishery.

Dear bsrkoacar,

Our Laramie Fish Management Crew is going to evaluate the growth and diet of the tiger muskies at North Crow. In addition, we will monitor catch rates and harvest rates, once tiger muskies reach the current legal size of 30 inches.  I am concerned about the tiger muskie in North Crow being caught and harvested at 30 inches, which is well before they really have the opportunity to grow to a large size and therefore eat more suckers.  Tiger muskies, in general, can be tough fish to catch, but if this proves to be the opposite at North Crow we would for sure considered a change to the regulation at North Crow. However, if catch rates are low for tiger muskies, there may not be a need to change the regulation.  Stay tuned...

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Dirty P on Jan 06, 2016, 09:06 AM
Dear Dirty P,

Our Fish Management Crew samples both Lake Hattie and Twin Buttes Reservoir on a frequent basis to continually evaluate our stocking strategies and the overall "health" of the fishery, i.e. average length, weight, condition of fish species present. We sample at the same sites and use the same gear every time we sample so our results are comparable across years. In terms of specific studies on Yellow Perch, there have not been any completed, but we have been tracking their relative abundance over the last number of decades through our regular sampling. Two strong year classes in 2003 and 2004 contributed to the strong Yellow Perch fishery in 2006 and 2007.  It is possible the strong 2004 year class created an overabundance of Yellow Perch ≥ 8 and ≤ 9 inches, which was evident in the 2007 and 2008 samples.  The consecutive strong Yellow Perch year-classes in 2003 and 2004 may have be competing for the same food resources, creating this bottle neck of 8-9 inch perch. The data supports the fact, just like other Yellow Perch fisheries, that the Lake Hattie Yellow Perch population exhibits variable recruitment, which leads to an inconsistent fishery. Another factor that may have caused a drastic reduction in the Yellow Perch population was the dramatic increase in the water level at Lake Hattie.  Based on our sampling data the relative abundance of perch remained consistent from 2004 through 2010, but the 2011 data showed a dramatic decline in perch numbers, which corresponds to an increase of >30 vertical feet of water added to the reservoir. The reservoir water level has remained somewhat consistent since then and our sampling data in 2015 showed an increase in the numbers of perch in the reservoir, with nearly half of the Yellow Perch captured in sampling gear in 2015 were >12 inches. If these large adults can reproduce successfully in enough numbers that some juvenile perch can survive to a size to escape predation, there may be an increase the in perch population over the next couple of years. Twin Buttes Reservoir receives its water from Lake Hattie and will get perch when there are enough numbers in Lake Hattie that enough perch get sucked down the canal and enter Twin Buttes. Habitat improvement in Lake Hattie is very difficult to plan for with the variable water levels and habitat structures added to the reservoir would take up storage space for water which the water rights are held by the Pioneer Canal District and Wheatland Irrigation District.

Hope this helps a little bit, if you have further questions or what to discuss this more, feel free to send me a message on this site.

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie   
Thank you for taking time to help anwser question on this site, it helps us become more informed of what the g/f does for the fisheries around wyoming. Too often i hear folks complain about the g/f, but let me say keep up the good work.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Jan 06, 2016, 12:29 PM
Thanks for all the great information.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Jan 06, 2016, 04:49 PM
Why don't we have more family friendly fun fish to catch in the south west part of the state I know we want a trophy trout area but what would it hurt to have bluegill and crappie to catch especially in Bridger pond and big Sandy
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Jan 06, 2016, 04:51 PM
Also what's the resent plan on catfish.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 07, 2016, 03:40 PM
Why don't we have more family friendly fun fish to catch in the south west part of the state I know we want a trophy trout area but what would it hurt to have bluegill and crappie to catch especially in Bridger pond and big Sandy
Thanks for the question. This is the response from the Green River supervisor.

Two reasons:
1)  It is always a gamble when agencies or people introduce new species.  There are countless examples across the nation where well intentioned introductions have ruined fisheries.  The illegal introduction of burbot to the Green River drainage serves as a graphic example of what can happen.  West of the continental divide Burbot are jeopardizing both sport and native fish populations throughout the drainage in Wyoming. They are also expanding well beyond the original locations they were illegally introduced.
2) All of the states in the Colorado River drainage, including Wyoming, have signed an agreement regarding the fish species stocking in waters that are connected to the Colorado River.  The Green River drainage eventually flows to the Colorado River.  The agreement is an effort to reduce the impacts of stocked fish on the 4 endangered Colorado River fishes.  Some species can not be stocked and other species can only be stocked through a lengthy process.  It would be a challenge to get approval for stocking may of the warm water species like bluegill and crappie.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 07, 2016, 03:42 PM
Also what's the resent plan on catfish.
Thanks for the question. This is the response from the Green River supervisor.


In recent years because of invasive species concerns (zebra mussels, quagga mussels and the like) it have become difficult for The Wyoming Game and Fish to find clean sources of channel catfish to trade for.  The limited number of channel catfish that the Wyoming Game and Fish has been able to trade for are being used east of the continental divide.  The availability of clean sources of channel catfish is not likely to improve any time soon.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Jan 07, 2016, 04:16 PM
Thank you very much
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: hump on Jan 07, 2016, 05:50 PM
Is there any food for the walleye in Hawk Springs? What is the condition of the walleye. Does the high angler pressure fish the lake out? It was very poor for a long time, then the water came back and it was very good for two years. Been dead again for about two years.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 07, 2016, 07:03 PM
I think the real question is this:  What happened to the perch in Hawk Springs?  I haven't heard of or seen a perch come from there in years... and I noticed the fishing went down hill fast when the perch disappeared.  There is likely very little or no natural reproduction with the walleye so if the lake was fished out (walleye) the answer is simple in my opinion, stock more! 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: hump on Jan 07, 2016, 09:05 PM
Im curious if it was sampled this year and what the populations and size of the gamefish are and if there is any forage available.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: minnow12 on Jan 12, 2016, 06:01 PM
(http://i1039.photobucket.com/albums/a479/ngriber/IMG_3995_zpsbv0jzzhg.jpg) (http://s1039.photobucket.com/user/ngriber/media/IMG_3995_zpsbv0jzzhg.jpg.html)


Hi I caught this fish on Bass lake too me it looks like a walleye but some other users say its a hybrid I am not sure do you know what it is.  All the other small perch I caught had the vertical bars but this one doesn't.
thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Jan 12, 2016, 07:51 PM
Perch
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Jan 12, 2016, 08:43 PM
Interesting!  No teeth?  Could be a perch that lost his stripes like flag chaser said.  Cool!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Jan 13, 2016, 03:31 PM
Is there any food for the walleye in Hawk Springs? What is the condition of the walleye. Does the high angler pressure fish the lake out? It was very poor for a long time, then the water came back and it was very good for two years. Been dead again for about two years.

Dear Hump and GemCitySlayer,

The walleye population at Hawk Springs Reservoir is sustained through stocking.  It was thought that natural reproduction might sustain the population and stocking ceased from 2003 through 2008, but we quickly learned that natural reproduction was not enough.  Annual walleye stocking resumed in 2009, with 80,000 fingerlings and 80,000 fingerlings were also stocked in 2010, 2011, 2012.  Walleye catch rates really increased by 2010 and remained high for some years, however, anglers started to report skinny walleye and that same trend became apparent in our sampling data by 2012.  Walleye are obtained from other states and were not available in 2013 and 2014, and the decision was made that once walleye were available to stock 40,000 annually.  40,000 were stocked in 2015 and sampling in 2015 showed an increase in the condition of captured walleye, but a noticeable reduction in their abundance, due to the lack of stocking. We are expecting better walleye catch rates this coming spring and we are hoping that walleye are available to stock in 2016 to start to rebuild their abundance in the reservoir.  We have observed numerous small gizzard shad annually and believe the forage is still adequate for the walleye, catfish, crappie in the reservoir.  GemCitySlayer asked about yellow perch. Our sampling gear has not captured any yellow perch since 2011.  It is possible that the numerous number of walleye stocked from 2009 through 2012 contributed to the noticeable decline in the perch population.  It’s possible that perch may rebound since walleye were not stocked in 2013 and 2014.  Give us a call this fall to find out about our annual sampling results. 

Sincerely,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: hump on Jan 14, 2016, 11:08 PM
Thanks. Sounds like the walleye helped fish the Lake out.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Jan 18, 2016, 01:00 PM
What fish are being stocked in area#4 reservoirs?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Jan 18, 2016, 01:01 PM
And what happened to small mouth in Bridger pond?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 18, 2016, 02:43 PM
EDIT: My question here was answered on facebook so I deleted my question.  Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: thirdeye on Jan 21, 2016, 01:29 PM
Does Wyoming have any restrictions for using a combination of beads and spinners above the hook, on the leader section of a tip-up line? 

In 2014 there were GF notices regarding bead placement in relation to a hook, but I recall that was viewed as a snagging technique, has a formal decision been made on that as well?

Example of tip-up leaders:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v377/thirdeye2/Hunting-Fishing/Tip%20Up%20Beads%20Spinners%203.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v377/thirdeye2/Hunting-Fishing/Tip%20Up%20Beads%20Spinners%202.jpg)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Nezlugh on Jan 25, 2016, 10:29 AM
WYGF took a picture of  my burbot I entered in the Burbot Bash this week end at Buckboard station. Is there anyway to get a copy of the pic? Had no idea I would place and I didn't take one myself.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Jan 26, 2016, 12:13 PM
And what happened to small mouth in Bridger pond?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Jan 26, 2016, 07:18 PM
This is not a question so I'm breaking the rules...

But I just wanted to thank the Game and Fish and the individuals who answer our questions on here.  We are fortunate to be able to reach out to them on a forum like this and ask them questions... I really appreciate it and I know everyone else does too - so thank you!!!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyofarmer on Jan 26, 2016, 08:03 PM
This is not a question so I'm breaking the rules...

But I just wanted to thank the Game and Fish and the individuals who answer our questions on here.  We are fortunate to be able to reach out to them on a forum like this and ask them questions... I really appreciate it and I know everyone else does too - so thank you!!!!
I'll let it slide just this one time...    ;)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Jan 30, 2016, 10:43 AM
Was there more kokanee stocked in alcova last year?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 01, 2016, 08:55 AM
Was there more kokanee stocked in alcova last year?
Just took a look and according to our database, 16,000 kokanee were stocked in Alcova in 2015.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jopes on Feb 01, 2016, 09:23 AM
Just took a look and according to our database, 16,000 kokanee were stocked in Alcova in 2015.

Thank You
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 01, 2016, 11:32 AM
What fish are being stocked in area#4 reservoirs?
Response from the Green River supervisor.

Most area #4 reservoirs are stocked with trout, a few are stocked with Kokanee salmon.  Depending on the reservoir and the management goals we routinely stock one or more of the following: rainbow trout, Bear River cutthroat trout, Snake River cutthroat trout, Colorado River cutthroat trout or tiger trout.  We also stock Kokanee salmon in Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Fontenelle Reservoir and High Savery Reservoir.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 01, 2016, 11:33 AM
And what happened to small mouth in Bridger pond?
Response from Green River supervisor.

As you may know, the smallmouth bass were doing quite well in Jim Bridger Pond following their introduction to help control the numbers of white suckers in the pond.  Unfortunately burbot gained access to the pond from the Green River through the pipeline that fills the pond.  Following introduction burbot spawned and the population increased rapidly.  Recent netting operation have documented some of the highest catch rates we have seen in local reservoirs.  As with the Flaming Gorge smallmouth population I suspect the smallmouth population in Jim Bridger Pond has succumb to burbot predation.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 01, 2016, 11:42 AM
Does Wyoming have any restrictions for using a combination of beads and spinners above the hook, on the leader section of a tip-up line? 

In 2014 there were GF notices regarding bead placement in relation to a hook, but I recall that was viewed as a snagging technique, has a formal decision been made on that as well?

Example of tip-up leaders:

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v377/thirdeye2/Hunting-Fishing/Tip%20Up%20Beads%20Spinners%203.jpg)

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v377/thirdeye2/Hunting-Fishing/Tip%20Up%20Beads%20Spinners%202.jpg)
Your setups look fine by me. The use of beads and spinners are legal. The issue with "beading" was the bead was above a bare hook and the fish did not "voluntarily take the hook into its mouth", thus a method for snagging. As long as you are not snagging, you are fine. Thanks. And sorry for the delay in response.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Feb 01, 2016, 06:53 PM
How many tiger trout were stocked in Woodruff Narrows reservoir?  Are they going to be stocked annually?  I recently moved across the state for work and I'll be giving this body of water a shot... looking forward to catching some tigers in there.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 03, 2016, 09:44 AM
Well they poisoned Bridger pond to remove walleye that not one single person would have complained about catching. Are there plane's of poisoning out the ling and restocking the bass in Bridger pond?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 09, 2016, 03:37 PM
Game and fish should consider making trot lines legal in the green river system for ling only. Would that be a possibility?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Feb 09, 2016, 06:33 PM
Game and fish should consider making trot lines legal in the green river system for ling only. Would that be a possibility?

I would love to hear the answer to this one as well.  I'm afraid I know what they are going to say, they will be against it.  Just like they are against the idea of using perch for bait.  Utah allows trotlines (15 hooks max) and they charge a small fee for the license.  Seems to me like a good way to generate a little more revenue for the G/F.  They are probably afraid too many trout will get gut-hooked.  The advantages outweigh the disadvantages in my opinion though.  Would be sweet if our G/F department had an email address or something where anglers could submit ideas and proposals for changing regs or adding new regs.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 12, 2016, 04:18 PM
I would love to hear the answer to this one as well.  I'm afraid I know what they are going to say, they will be against it.  Just like they are against the idea of using perch for bait.  Utah allows trotlines (15 hooks max) and they charge a small fee for the license.  Seems to me like a good way to generate a little more revenue for the G/F.  They are probably afraid too many trout will get gut-hooked.  The advantages outweigh the disadvantages in my opinion though.  Would be sweet if our G/F department had an email address or something where anglers could submit ideas and proposals for changing regs or adding new regs.
 


A store bought trot line normally comes with twenty five hooks and circle hooks would eliminate almost all gut hooked fish. Sure would be a way to knock back the ling numbers...
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 12, 2016, 04:19 PM
Well they poisoned Bridger pond to remove walleye that not one single person would have complained about catching. Are there plane's of poisoning out the ling and restocking the bass in Bridger pond?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: lippy on Feb 12, 2016, 05:04 PM
dumb question never used a trotline but how do they work vertically with 15 or 20 hooks wouldn't most of your hooks be up in the water column?   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 12, 2016, 06:01 PM
dumb question never used a trotline but how do they work vertically with 15 or 20 hooks wouldn't most of your hooks be up in the water column?

Used horizontal after ice out as close to bottom as possible without snagging
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Feb 12, 2016, 08:08 PM
dumb question never used a trotline but how do they work vertically with 15 or 20 hooks wouldn't most of your hooks be up in the water column?

I don't think anyone would use them for ice fishing....vertically they wouldn't work very good for targeting ling....

When people use them for catfish they set them off the shore and you put a weight down at the very end and maybe a couple between to keep the baits closer to the bottom.  I really don't know why they are illegal here there are a couple lakes I can think of that would be really fun to trotline fish... (Glendo / Grayrocks?)  Same thing goes for jug lines?  I don't see the reason for banning them either.  Again, would be pretty fun to set 2-3 at night before you go to bed and see what you catch in the morning. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Feb 12, 2016, 08:48 PM
Question to the Game and Fish.

We are starting to get the state wide minnows. Very nice and good size. I was under the assumption that everywhere I was purchasing state wide they were the medium size minnows. Well after asking and looking into the minnows they are the large minnows, 2- 2.5 inches average. A good minnow but come spring I'm looking for 3-5 inch minnow. I've understand from conversations among the Bait Dealers they can buy a bigger minnow from the Arkansas hatchery to sell but not cleared by the game and fish. Big minnows big fish!!!! Come spring I can catch a 3 plus. cub or shiner/flat head sucker. But doing so I'm restricted to my region. State can be available anywhere. Is there anyway that you could grant the dealers to purchase a cub or X that can have some size.  Like the state just want a bigger minnow. What say you?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 16, 2016, 08:51 AM
Question to the Game and Fish.

We are starting to get the state wide minnows. Very nice and good size. I was under the assumption that everywhere I was purchasing state wide they were the medium size minnows. Well after asking and looking into the minnows they are the large minnows, 2- 2.5 inches average. A good minnow but come spring I'm looking for 3-5 inch minnow. I've understand from conversations among the Bait Dealers they can buy a bigger minnow from the Arkansas hatchery to sell but not cleared by the game and fish. Big minnows big fish!!!! Come spring I can catch a 3 plus. cub or shiner/flat head sucker. But doing so I'm restricted to my region. State can be available anywhere. Is there anyway that you could grant the dealers to purchase a cub or X that can have some size.  Like the state just want a bigger minnow. What say you?
At this point, the only minnow allowed for import into Wyoming from the hatchery in Arkansas is fathead minnows. Minnow dealers can import small, medium, and large fatheads. Some of the large fatheads that I've seen have been about 3 inches. The other two species that the hatchery in Arkansas raises for sales are golden shiners and a fish called the black salty. These are not approved for import into Wyoming. If a larger minnow like a creek chub is what you desire, your best bet would be to find a dealer in the region in where you want to fish to supply you with minnows. Or, as you mentioned above, stay in the region where you captured them with you seining/trapping license.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 16, 2016, 11:50 AM

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 16, 2016, 04:20 PM
How many tiger trout were stocked in Woodruff Narrows reservoir?  Are they going to be stocked annually?  I recently moved across the state for work and I'll be giving this body of water a shot... looking forward to catching some tigers in there.
Reply from the Green River supervisor. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department started stocking tiger trout into Woodruff Reservoir in 2014.  The current plan is to stock 10,000 three inch tiger trout annually for the next few years.  Every year or two we will evaluate the trout population with gill nets.  If the tiger trout return well in the gill nets and they return well to anglers stocking will continue.  If they not perform well stocking will be eliminated.
 
One of the challenges all stocked trout have had in Woodruff Reservoir is winter reservoir elevations.  In recent decades the reservoir is typically drawn down to low levels by fall and the water levels remains low through the winter.  The low reservoir levels through fall and winter have resulted in low overwinter survival of stocked trout.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 16, 2016, 04:22 PM
Well they poisoned Bridger pond to remove walleye that not one single person would have complained about catching. Are there plane's of poisoning out the ling and restocking the bass in Bridger pond?
Response from the Green River supervisor. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has no plans to chemically treat Jim Bridger Pond to remove burbot.  Burbot were illegally introduced into the Green River drainage at several locations during the late 1980s and 1990s (best guess).  Burbot spread throughout the drainage rapidly.  Burbot first gained access to Jim Bridger Pond prior to the 2014 treatment via the intake that fills the pond from the Green River.  All fish, including the burbot, in Jim Bridger Pond were killed during the 2004 chemical treatment.  A few short years following the 2004 chemical treatment burbot re-established in Jim Bridger Pond via the intake from the Green River.  The population has built since then.
 
The Green River fisheries crew has had some success reducing burbot numbers in Jim Bridger pond through experimental netting operations.  Jim Bridger pond is uniquely suited for such efforts given its small size and the habitat features in the reservoir.  The fish crew will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of using nets to reduce the number of burbot and their impact on the fisheries in Jim Bridger Pond.
 
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has no plans to stock bass in Jim Bridger Pond.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 16, 2016, 04:23 PM
Game and fish should consider making trot lines legal in the green river system for ling only. Would that be a possibility?
Response from the Green River supervisor.  The Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources have experimented with trot lines and evaluated their effectiveness on burbot.  When we have tried trot lines for burbot, both in the Green River and in Flaming Gorge Reservoir the by-catch of trout exceeded the number of burbot caught.  Given that trot lines are likely to catch more non-target species than burbot it is unlikely the Department would propose legalizing trot lines for burbot.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 16, 2016, 04:51 PM
Thanks for the reply
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 18, 2016, 12:51 PM
Response from the Green River supervisor.  The Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources have experimented with trot lines and evaluated their effectiveness on burbot.  When we have tried trot lines for burbot, both in the Green River and in Flaming Gorge Reservoir the by-catch of trout exceeded the number of burbot caught.  Given that trot lines are likely to catch more non-target species than burbot it is unlikely the Department would propose legalizing trot lines for burbot.


Is there a natural predator that would reduce their numbers ?  With the numbers of burbot in the green river system I'm in the belief they are here to stay... What are the future goals, plan's or whatever?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 19, 2016, 10:52 AM

Is there a natural predator that would reduce their numbers ?  With the numbers of burbot in the green river system I'm in the belief they are here to stay... What are the future goals, plan's or whatever?
Response from the Green River supervisor. In fact lake trout and smallmouth bass co-evolved with burbot in their native range.  At some point the biological controls that help keep burbot in check in their native range will start helping control burbot numbers in Flaming Gorge.  We are increasingly seeing burbot in the stomachs of lake trout and smallmouth bass.  We are even seeing increasing levels of cannibalism among burbot as they deplete their food resources.

The WGFD has worked diligently since the illegal introduction of burbot west of the continental divide to modify regulation allowing for maximum exploitation of burbot by anglers.  Burbot were reclassified as a non-game species west of the continental divide.  Harvest is unlimited with a must kill regulation in place.  We now allow the use of artificial light while fishing, including while underwater spear fishing for non-game species.  We also spend considerable time educating people about the consequences of illegal introductions.  Burbot is a classic case study of the ecological consequences of illegal introductions.

The Green River fisheries management crew for several years has been partnering with the sponsors of the Burbot Bash and the Burbot Classic on Flaming Gorge Reservoir during the winter.  We hope to partner with the sponsors of the La Barge Ding the Ling on Fontenelle Reservoir during the winter of 2017.  These derbies are a great opportunity to highlight the issue with illegally introduced species such as burbot, educate folks, and draw anglers to local waters to help remove burbot from the system.  Every burbot that is removed is a saving in sport fish.

We are continuing our efforts to research the life history of burbot in the Green River drainage with the goal of identifying one or more "Achilles Heels" in their life history that we can exploit.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: mark d. on Feb 19, 2016, 11:30 AM
Thank you. I will be doing a little more night fishing to try and thin them out
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: thirdeye on Feb 20, 2016, 11:15 AM
A letter to the editor in the Casper Star Tribune on 2/20/16 mentions the possibility of raising the limit on walleye in Pathfinder Res in 2017.  Would you explain why this is under consideration?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: rbmchief on Feb 21, 2016, 05:43 AM
A letter to the editor in the Casper Star Tribune on 2/20/16 mentions the possibility of raising the limit on walleye in Pathfinder Res in 2017.  Would you explain why this is under consideration?

And do you know when the public comment or meeting is in Casper?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 23, 2016, 08:50 AM
A letter to the editor in the Casper Star Tribune on 2/20/16 mentions the possibility of raising the limit on walleye in Pathfinder Res in 2017.  Would you explain why this is under consideration?
Thanks for the question. This is the response from a Casper Regional Fisheries Biologist.

The Casper Region Fisheries Management Crew proposes raising the walleye limit from 6 to 12 fish at Pathfinder Reservoir as a means to return some balance between the trout and walleye fisheries.  We anticipate the effects of the regulation change to include a slowly reducing walleye population overall, and fewer very large walleye (greater than 24 inches) over 3-5 years.  Most importantly, we hope the regulation change would improve the survival of stocked rainbow trout, which is the goal of the proposal.  Increased survival of stocked trout is badly needed to reverse the substantial decline in trout fishing at Pathfinder over the last several years.  Trout fishing continues to be the most popular at Pathfinder despite complaints about poor fishing compared to years past. 

Walleye recruitment benefited tremendously from the high water years of 2010-2012 at Pathfinder and the growing population subsequently capitalized on the consistently abundant forage provided by stocked trout - to become the fishery it is today.  Walleye at Pathfinder display an atypical increase in their growth rate once they reach 18-20 inches - because they can begin exploiting the 9 inch stocked trout as forage.  Unfortunately, this scenario developed at the expense of the trout fishery.  Since 2013, rainbow trout catch rates during monitoring surveys declined by 43% and the late spring angler catch rate has declined 76%.  Therefore, we'd like to try to return the rainbow trout fishery to the prominence it once had at Pathfinder and we feel this can happen and still provide a fairly good walleye fishery as well. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 23, 2016, 08:55 AM
And do you know when the public comment or meeting is in Casper?
Meeting dates and times for public comment have not been determined as of yet. Regional crews are still working on proposals for regulation changes. Stay tuned to our website at https://wgfd.wyo.gov/ for more information. I will try to post meeting dates and times when they are announced as well.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Feb 25, 2016, 06:09 PM
About when do the walleye spawn in buffalo bill res?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SLAYERFISH on Mar 01, 2016, 02:17 PM
What is the definitive answer on bringing my boat up from colorado to wyoming?

I have read that if I have my boat sealed and the receipt from colo I dont need to stop at the border for an inspection?

Or if I am coming up 287 and the Laramie inspection is closed am I OK with just the seal and receipt?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Keith Walters on Mar 01, 2016, 10:09 PM
Inspected or not, you absolutely must stop whenever you come to an open watercraft inspection station.

Good fishing,
Keith
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Mar 30, 2016, 07:37 AM
it's illegal to bypass a check station, no matter if you have been inspected or not.  If you have been inspected in Colorado and have a valid seal and receipt, the process is much quicker.  Also, if you have been inspected and sealed in Colorado, and you do not come by a check station in Wyoming, you are good to go, just keep the seal and receipt in your boat with you.  At least, that's how it was when I was doing boat inspections.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SLAYERFISH on Mar 30, 2016, 02:20 PM
it's illegal to bypass a check station, no matter if you have been inspected or not.  If you have been inspected in Colorado and have a valid seal and receipt, the process is much quicker.  Also, if you have been inspected and sealed in Colorado, and you do not come by a check station in Wyoming, you are good to go, just keep the seal and receipt in your boat with you.  At least, that's how it was when I was doing boat inspections.

Thats what I wondered because Ill be dragging my boat up 287 in the wee hours and the port of entry there doesnt do boat inspections.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 20, 2016, 09:41 AM
Wyoming Ice Shanty members,

Looking forward to answering questions on waters within the Laramie Fish Management Region.  Waters within the region include Grayrocks, Laramie Plains Lakes, #3, Hawk Springs, Curt Gowdy lakes, Cheyenne lakes, Rob Roy, Saratoga Lake, Diamond Lake and of course many more in the Snowy Range and eastern plains.  Everyone be safe on the hardwater this season!

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wy fishing nut on Dec 24, 2016, 09:01 PM
I have a question on boat inspecting. I have some freinds from Ne. Coming to wy to fish and no check stations are open at the time they enter. Can they self inspect and go fishing? If not what do they do when there is no check station open at the port of entry or lake. This is usually the case early and late in the season.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: BillFisher on Dec 29, 2016, 01:15 PM
How are the perch and walleye doing in Rock Lake near Wheatland this year?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: rhtollison23 on Dec 29, 2016, 02:14 PM
Is it illegal to use a gaff on Burbot?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 29, 2016, 03:50 PM
Dear rhtollison23,

Always a great idea to consult the regulations and your local game warden.  The only place in the current Wyoming fishing regulations it mentions gaffs is for Flaming Gorge Reservoir, where the use or possession of a gaff is prohibited.

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 29, 2016, 03:53 PM
I have a question on boat inspecting. I have some freinds from Ne. Coming to wy to fish and no check stations are open at the time they enter. Can they self inspect and go fishing? If not what do they do when there is no check station open at the port of entry or lake. This is usually the case early and late in the season.

Dear Wy fishing nut,

Any watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1 through November 30 must undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching.  Any watercraft that has been in a water infested with zebra/quagga mussels within the last 30 days, is required to undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching during ALL months of the year.  Any watercraft transported into Wyoming from December 1 through the last day of February that HAS NOT been in a water infested with zebra/quagga mussel within the past thirty (30) days and did not encounter a mandatory aquatic invasive species check station prior to reaching a water of the state, may launch without a mandatory inspection.  All watercraft must have a valid Wyoming AIS decal before boating on any waters of the state. Decals are available online, at regional offices and at automated license vendors.

Your friend can find authorized inspectors at all Wyoming Game and Fish offices and there are also authorized private inspectors as well.  You can find a list of inspection locations, list of infested waters, and more information at the link below.

https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Fishing-and-Boating/Aquatic-Invasive-Species-Prevention/AIS-Boating-Information

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jaklakmak on Dec 29, 2016, 03:58 PM
One thing that would really help is if you had people at the check stations a couple hours before the sun comes up. A lot of people including myself like to get there early as usually the best fishing is early and I haven't been able to fish my favorite lake since you implemented the check stations because no one is there at 4:30 or 5 in the morning in the summer.
Dear Wy fishing nut,

Any watercraft transported into Wyoming from March 1 through November 30 must undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching.  Any watercraft that has been in a water infested with zebra/quagga mussels within the last 30 days, is required to undergo a mandatory inspection by an authorized inspector prior to launching during ALL months of the year.  Any watercraft transported into Wyoming from December 1 through the last day of February that HAS NOT been in a water infested with zebra/quagga mussel within the past thirty (30) days and did not encounter a mandatory aquatic invasive species check station prior to reaching a water of the state, may launch without a mandatory inspection.  All watercraft must have a valid Wyoming AIS decal before boating on any waters of the state. Decals are available online, at regional offices and at automated license vendors.

Your friend can find authorized inspectors at all Wyoming Game and Fish offices and there are also authorized private inspectors as well.  You can find a list of inspection locations, list of infested waters, and more information at the link below.

https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Fishing-and-Boating/Aquatic-Invasive-Species-Prevention/AIS-Boating-Information

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 29, 2016, 03:59 PM
How are the perch and walleye doing in Rock Lake near Wheatland this year?

Dear BillFisher,

Rock Lake was sampled with nets in 2015 and the Walleye averaged almost 20 inches. The largest Walleye caught was over 28 inches and weight 8.5 pounds.  The perch were not as abundant as in years past, so they might still be on a down cycle this year.  Channel Catfish captured averaged over 17 inches.  The Largemouth Bass were not super abundant, but there were a couple of big bucket mouths in there over 5 pounds.  It is stocked annually with 6,000 fingerling Walleye and with Channel Catfish when they are available from out-of-state sources.

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Dec 29, 2016, 11:48 PM
Could someone please clarify an issue with regulations for goldeneye reservoir in Natrona county. It is referred to by both names in the regs ? Burlington listed as closed and goldeneye under special ice provisions? One says the reservoir is closed for the winter ?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dub307 on Jan 01, 2017, 08:30 PM
As most all fisherman I am looking for the biggest minnow to fish with in a lot of cases when chasing the big fish.  Buying from local tackle shops for minnows does not always offer the consumer very big minnows.  So my question is can someone buy minnows in bulk, something like 100-500 minnows at a time. I was curious if I could have a garage setup with something like a trough as a tank and raise the minnows to be bigger then legally fish with?  What are the legal steps to do this if it's even allowed?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: edan on Jan 26, 2017, 01:24 PM
In the early 70s kokanee were introduced into palisades reservoir an are still found to a small amount spawning at big elk creek. I was woundering if wyo could start planting them again to improve the fishing in the lake
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jstim on Jan 26, 2017, 08:08 PM
Hello G&F, is there a website that lists what kind of forage is in the Flaming Gorge, Green River and Black Forks River. Forage regarding types of plankton, bait fish, and native aquatic and terrestrial insects. If no website, any other resource would be much appreciated. Trying to up my fishing knowledge of local waters. Thank You.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Rmills on Feb 02, 2017, 12:05 PM
Great information!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jstim on Feb 04, 2017, 08:33 PM
Thanks for the response G&F, appreciate it.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Feb 05, 2017, 09:44 AM
Could someone please clarify an issue with regulations for goldeneye reservoir in Natrona county. It is referred to by both names in the regs ? Burlington listed as closed and goldeneye under special ice provisions? One says the reservoir is closed for the winter ?

Goldeneye Res used to be called burlington lake on the old maps.  It is my understanding that when a dam and canal were created to raise the water level it then became known as goldeneye reservoir.  It is the one we stock about 20 miles west of town at the goldeneye wildlife and recreation area.  Burlington reservoir, on the other hand, is just nothwest of the town of powder river.  It was once a thriving fishery, but has silted in greatly and is no longer stocked.  The access agreement to cross private lands to access burlington required the winter closure which is why it was listed as closed.  There are no such restrictions to access goldeneye, it is open 24/7/365 with statewide creel limits.  6 lines are allowed through the ice but live minnows are prohibited.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Feb 05, 2017, 09:48 AM
Welcome to the Shanty WGFDcasper! Glad to have you aboard! We all appreciate the time you fellows take to come in an answer questions when you can, thank you! :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Feb 05, 2017, 09:52 AM
As most all fisherman I am looking for the biggest minnow to fish with in a lot of cases when chasing the big fish.  Buying from local tackle shops for minnows does not always offer the consumer very big minnows.  So my question is can someone buy minnows in bulk, something like 100-500 minnows at a time. I was curious if I could have a garage setup with something like a trough as a tank and raise the minnows to be bigger then legally fish with?  What are the legal steps to do this if it's even allowed?

When you purchase minnows you get a receipt that is valid for either 15 days (wild caught) or 30 days (commercial fatheads).  You are required to kill those fish when the receipt expires.  If you want to keep minnows longer than that you have two options.  You can buy a seining/trapping license and catch your own minnows.  You can keep and use those minnows as long as you have a valid license.  Your second option is to buy a bait dealer license.  You can purchase minnows in bulk from another dealer, and hold them to try and grow them.  You would also be allowed to sell minnows which might offset the cost of purchasing a bunch. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: brownb56 on Feb 05, 2017, 12:06 PM
Now that ling are classified as a non-game fish on flaming gorge can we use them as bait?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Feb 06, 2017, 11:40 PM
SO? the minnows trapped on a seining/trapping permit in the fall of 2016 are legal in 2017 with a  new permit?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Feb 07, 2017, 09:32 AM
Goldeneye Res used to be called burlington lake on the old maps.  It is my understanding that when a dam and canal were created to raise the water level it then became known as goldeneye reservoir.  It is the one we stock about 20 miles west of town at the goldeneye wildlife and recreation area.  Burlington reservoir, on the other hand, is just nothwest of the town of powder river.  It was once a thriving fishery, but has silted in greatly and is no longer stocked.  The access agreement to cross private lands to access burlington required the winter closure which is why it was listed as closed.  There are no such restrictions to access goldeneye, it is open 24/7/365 with statewide creel limits.  6 lines are allowed through the ice but live minnows are prohibited.
.   Thanks for the feed back on this topic.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Feb 09, 2017, 12:04 PM
SO? the minnows trapped on a seining/trapping permit in the fall of 2016 are legal in 2017 with a  new permit?

Yep.  Top of page 10 in the 2017 regulations "Wild caught live baitfish may be held indefinitely by the holder of a valid, unexpired seining license, but shall not be released, abandoned or allowed to escape".  So as long as you renew your seining license before the end of the year, you can keep the minnows you captured and use them as long as you can keep them alive.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Wyo_Ringo on Feb 22, 2017, 09:25 AM
Now that ling are classified as a non-game fish on flaming gorge can we use them as bait?

+1
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Feb 22, 2017, 09:37 AM
Yep.  Top of page 10 in the 2017 regulations "Wild caught live baitfish may be held indefinitely by the holder of a valid, unexpired seining license, but shall not be released, abandoned or allowed to escape".  So as long as you renew your seining license before the end of the year, you can keep the minnows you captured and use them as long as you can keep them alive.
Thank you
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Feb 23, 2017, 02:40 PM
(http://i63.tinypic.com/jrcffs.jpg) Confirm or deny pleaser of this is true it's incredible. Also highly illegal for the persons that planted them in the lake but dang. If there's one you can almost guarantee there's others. But pathfinder is a very large a deep piece of water. What a catch
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Shoe on Feb 23, 2017, 04:00 PM
Well it is a sturgeon but not sure which species.  Is this fake news or real?  I mean is the location fake?  Must be.

s
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: appleye on Feb 23, 2017, 04:20 PM
It's a lake sturgeon that has a spear in its back. I think they get them out in Wisconsin.

http://midwestfisherman.blogspot.com/2011/12/sturgeon-spearing-2012.html
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Mar 09, 2017, 04:36 PM
Dear Wyo_Ringo,

Since Burbot are listed as a non-game fish in Area 4, if caught they have to be killed immediately, but after killing them they could be used as cut-bait.

WGFDFishBioLaramie

+1
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: thirdeye on Apr 27, 2017, 10:52 PM
In looking at the 2017 Regs I see that trout beads can now be used above a bare hook, as well as a above an artificial fly (above meaning 2" or less from the eye of the hook), and further the Regs state that a trout bead used with a bare hook is considered an artificial lure in the same category as a jig, spoon, spinner etc. Within the definition for artificial lures the Regs state: "artificial flies and lures do not include living or dead organisms or edible parts thereof, natural or prepared organic food stuffs, or chemical attractants".  I'm thinking this is to further clarify the interpretation/definition of "artificial" when the lure itself is manufactured..., but I have a question below:

Q:  Provided one is not fishing in an artificial only area of water... Does this mean that a bare hook, with properly positioned trout bead can't be tipped with any type of bait like is common when jigging or trolling with a spoon or spinner?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Apr 28, 2017, 05:33 PM
In looking at the 2017 Regs I see that trout beads can now be used above a bare hook, as well as a above an artificial fly (above meaning 2" or less from the eye of the hook), and further the Regs state that a trout bead used with a bare hook is considered an artificial lure in the same category as a jig, spoon, spinner etc. Within the definition for artificial lures the Regs state: "artificial flies and lures do not include living or dead organisms or edible parts thereof, natural or prepared organic food stuffs, or chemical attractants".  I'm thinking this is to further clarify the interpretation/definition of "artificial" when the lure itself is manufactured..., but I have a question below:

Q:  Provided one is not fishing in an artificial only area of water... Does this mean that a bare hook, with properly positioned trout bead can't be tipped with any type of bait like is common when jigging or trolling with a spoon or spinner?

Not sure the G&F guys will be checking in here since it's Spring and their probably busy elsewhere. You might check into MyFishFinder.com, the open water sister site to this one. If I recall correctly there was a couple of lengthy responses to the bead above a hook regs earlier in this thread, you might find it easiuer with the Search feature too. It gets kind of slow in here this time of year! Tight lines to you! ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: thirdeye on Apr 29, 2017, 06:41 AM
Not sure the G&F guys will be checking in here since it's Spring and their probably busy elsewhere. You might check into MyFishFinder.com, the open water sister site to this one. If I recall correctly there was a couple of lengthy responses to the bead above a hook regs earlier in this thread, you might find it easiuer with the Search feature too. It gets kind of slow in here this time of year! Tight lines to you! ;D

Thanks for that link.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: kyle1982 on Jul 15, 2017, 09:40 PM
Can you use dead smelt for bait in Flaming Gorge? Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: RandyOfLaramie on Dec 19, 2017, 10:56 PM
Why is the Game and Fish posting signs warning of the potential for bank collapse on Lake Hattie when it is private land?  Why is the G&F putting boulders at places around Lake Hattie when it is BLM  and Private land?

Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 20, 2017, 04:59 PM
Happy to be back on Ice Shanty for the 2017/2018 ice fishing season.  Looking forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region  I will be happy to address all issues on fish management of waters in Southeast Wyoming.  When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in Southeast Wyoming. Laramie Plains Lakes anglers, remember there are aeration systems on Meeboer and Gelatt.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 20, 2017, 05:01 PM
Question - Why is the Game and Fish posting signs warning of the potential for bank collapse on Lake Hattie when it is private land?  Why is the G&F putting boulders at places around Lake Hattie when it is BLM  and Private land?

Dear RandyofLaramie,

Give the Laramie Game and Fish Office a call and ask to talk to a Fisheries Biologist as your question would be better answered over the phone or in-person if you want to stop by the Laramie Office.

Thanks,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Dec 20, 2017, 07:57 PM
Happy to be back on Ice Shanty for the 2017/2018 ice fishing season.  Looking forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region  I will be happy to address all issues on fish management of waters in Southeast Wyoming.  When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in Southeast Wyoming. Laramie Plains Lakes anglers, remember there are aeration systems on Meeboer and Gelatt.

Certainly do appreciate your participation in the Wyoming Ice Shanty and the time you take to answer questions from our members over the seasons. A good group of avid Wyoming outdoor enthusiasts abound here!  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDLaramieFishBio on Jan 02, 2018, 10:54 AM
Excited to join the Ice Shanty group, and looking forward to answering questions about the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region. Good luck to all anglers this ice season!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Jan 02, 2018, 08:13 PM
Welcome to the Shanty WGFDLaramieFishBio!  :tipup:

A great passionate group here and we all appreciate the resources you guys represent here for us and the time you take to respond to questions, etc. Thanks again!

Excited to join the Ice Shanty group, and looking forward to answering questions about the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region. Good luck to all anglers this ice season!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: slickrockhounds on Jan 05, 2018, 12:42 PM
Excited to join the Ice Shanty group, and looking forward to answering questions about the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region. Good luck to all anglers this ice season!

Thank you for doing it!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Jan 05, 2018, 10:27 PM
Excited to join the Ice Shanty group, and looking forward to answering questions about the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region. Good luck to all anglers this ice season!
  Thank you for your help and your service
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: pokesfan on Jan 08, 2018, 09:50 AM
Are there catchable size Tiger Muskies in North Crow yet?

Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDLaramieFishBio on Jan 08, 2018, 10:20 AM
Are there catchable size Tiger Muskies in North Crow yet?

Thanks

Hi pokesfan,

We do not have any data on the size of Tiger Muskie in North Crow yet, which is why we are seeking angler help and information. There should be some Tiger Muskie of catchable size if they are surviving in North Crow, since they have had three years to grow and food (suckers) is readily available. The statewide regulation is that only one Tiger Muskie larger than 36 inches can be harvested, and it is probably unlikely that Tiger Muskie have reached this 36 inch minimum size yet. Thanks for the question and I hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: appleye on Jan 08, 2018, 10:57 AM
Are there plans to stock Kokanee anywhere else in the state that don't have Kokanee now?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WyoRaven on Jan 10, 2018, 02:37 PM
Is there any truth to the rumor that walleye were illegally released into Granite Reservoir? I've heard this a number of times, even from State Parks employees, but never heard of anyone catching them.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: SDFlagChaser on Jan 10, 2018, 08:58 PM
Is there any truth to the rumor that walleye were illegally released into Granite Reservoir? I've heard this a number of times, even from State Parks employees, but never heard of anyone catching them.

A kid caught a 12# eye a few years ago.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Jan 11, 2018, 10:54 AM
Are there plans to stock Kokanee anywhere else in the state that don't have Kokanee now?

I cannot speak for other regions, but in the Casper region we would like to try Kokanee in several other reservoirs.  Right now we are in a multiple year evaluation of Kokanee and Cutthroat in Alcova Reservoir.  Once we finish our evaluation and make a final determination on species size and number we would like to try Kokanee in Pathfinder.  At this point though, Kokanee requests from the regional biologists have outpaced what our brood stocks can provide.  Our fish culture personnel have been working on alternate wild Kokanee brood stocks as well as attempting to develop a captive Kokanee brood.  Once the egg supply can meet requests, we should have the ability to try Kokanee in some other lakes.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Jan 11, 2018, 05:31 PM
Pathfinder would be great, other than the walleye getting them. But pathfinder has much better ice conditions than alcova and would give more fisherman a chance to harvest..although I know there's walleye in alcova as well, so I guess we wait and see what the survey says lol!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: appleye on Jan 11, 2018, 07:46 PM
I cannot speak for other regions, but in the Casper region we would like to try Kokanee in several other reservoirs.  Right now we are in a multiple year evaluation of Kokanee and Cutthroat in Alcova Reservoir.  Once we finish our evaluation and make a final determination on species size and number we would like to try Kokanee in Pathfinder.  At this point though, Kokanee requests from the regional biologists have outpaced what our brood stocks can provide.  Our fish culture personnel have been working on alternate wild Kokanee brood stocks as well as attempting to develop a captive Kokanee brood.  Once the egg supply can meet requests, we should have the ability to try Kokanee in some other lakes.

Thanks for the reply. I know from my own time on Alcova the Kokanee are doing very well and almost no one is fishing for them. Biggest one I got was 22" and close the 3lbs and awesome to eat! I just wish it wasn't  A three hour drive but......
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Hunt n Fish on Jan 17, 2018, 08:46 AM
Is there any truth to the rumor that walleye were illegally released into Granite Reservoir? I've heard this a number of times, even from State Parks employees, but never heard of anyone catching them.

I lost one at the hole up there at first ice this year so there’s at least one in there.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bsrkoacar on Jan 20, 2018, 12:59 PM
How many tip ups/poles can you use in wyoming?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Jan 20, 2018, 04:45 PM
How many tip ups/poles can you use in wyoming?
.  Depends on the body of water your fishing. I know boysen pathfinder are six lines, while golden eye and other central Wyoming areas ponds are two lines and generally no live bait, but that also depends on the area. Check the regulations before you head out.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bsrkoacar on Jan 20, 2018, 10:27 PM
I know a fly fishing guide, he told me that his friend (also a guide) caught a 20 pound rainbow out of the miracle mile. Are there really fish of that caliber in the river or pathfinder reservoir? He didn't have a picture, Seems exaggerated but guess I wouldn't be too surprised.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Jan 22, 2018, 10:37 AM
I wouldn't doubt it one bit.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Jan 22, 2018, 08:51 PM
How many tip ups/poles can you use in wyoming?

You can get a copy of the regs in most sporting stores.  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: hump on Jan 22, 2018, 09:00 PM
Where is this proposed dam on Battle Creek going to be located? I just heard about it today.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bsrkoacar on Jan 27, 2018, 11:24 PM
Caught this deformed rainbow in pathfinder. Is this genetic?


(https://s18.postimg.cc/z8xhzkyhh/0127181349.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/z8xhzkyhh/)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Jan 29, 2018, 04:36 PM
Caught this deformed rainbow in pathfinder. Is this genetic?


(https://s18.postimg.cc/z8xhzkyhh/0127181349.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/z8xhzkyhh/)
Deformities like that are often genetic.  They can also be due to an injury when the fish was small that caused a fractured vertebrae.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Mohawk Garage on Jan 29, 2018, 09:04 PM
There's been talk here in Rawlins that they are going to build a fishing pond. I was curious if anyone knew or had an idea possibly of what species of fish they might stock in it? Personally I think it would be fun for the kids to be able to catch something different then trout, something like crappie, blue gill, perch would awesome and give the kids opportunity to learn about some other species of fish.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: dickeyrrd on Jan 30, 2018, 03:49 PM
Has g&f ever stocked walleye in wheatland no 3? And do you have plans on doing it in the future, Your survey says that the walleye are only eating walleye and not trout, so why not have the best of both worlds, if the walleye in there now came from res no 2, they seem to have done quite well the last 3 years.  thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: solidwater on Feb 04, 2018, 03:47 PM
To hump who asked about a dam on battle creek. Yes there is one proposed for the west fork battle creek to include haggerty creek. You can find the details at www.wyofile.com
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 05, 2018, 11:33 AM
There's been talk here in Rawlins that they are going to build a fishing pond. I was curious if anyone knew or had an idea possibly of what species of fish they might stock in it? Personally I think it would be fun for the kids to be able to catch something different then trout, something like crappie, blue gill, perch would awesome and give the kids opportunity to learn about some other species of fish.

Mohawk Garage,

Hopefully the construction of the fishing pond will begin this spring/summer and completed this year.  To get the fishery going catchable (8-10 inches) trout will be stocked initially.  This will probably be the case for a couple of years while we assess fish growth, water quality, water temperature, etc.  If conditions are suitable for other species, maybe such as catfish, then those could be considered. 

The pond should be a great addition to the community.

Take care,

WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Feb 05, 2018, 11:50 AM
Has g&f ever stocked walleye in wheatland no 3? And do you have plans on doing it in the future, Your survey says that the walleye are only eating walleye and not trout, so why not have the best of both worlds, if the walleye in there now came from res no 2, they seem to have done quite well the last 3 years.  thanks

Dickeyrrd,

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has never stocked Walleye into Wheatland Reservoir #3.  However, the Game and Fish did stock Walleye into Wheatland Reservoir #2 in 1952, 1957 through 1960, then 1976 and 1977.  Rainbow Trout were stocked into #2 in 1976 and 1978.  Follow up sampling to these stocking events found them to be of little success due to the widely fluctuating water levels of #2.  Once it seemed certain that there was not going to be public access to #2 all stocking was stopped.  Walleye have hung on in #2, therefore when water is kicked into #3, Walleye can come with that water and that is how they get into #3.  Once Walleye are in #3 they have been shown to do well and to naturally reproduce.  The Game and Fish has no plans to stock Walleye into #3 in the future.  In terms of the data you are referencing about the diets of Walleye in #3; from the fish found in the stomachs of Walleye that could be identified we found smaller Walleye, Carp, darters, and Fatheads.  In addition, there were lots of fish parts found in the stomachs of Walleye that may have been trout, but could not be identified.  At this point, I would not be comfortable saying that Walleye do not eat trout in #3 and we have plans to further research that in 2018 and will keep you all informed of what we find.  If you have further questions about the management of #3 please give our Fisheries Crew a call at the Laramie Office 307-745-4046. 

Thanks!

WGFDFishBioLaramie   
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoeyes! on Feb 09, 2018, 03:17 PM
Can wild caught minnows in Area B in the North Platte River Drainage be used in the downstream area "A"?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Feb 09, 2018, 06:53 PM
Can wild caught minnows in Area B in the North Platte River Drainage be used in the downstream area "A"?

Area 5B minnows can be used in that part of 5A upstream of Glendo Dam. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bsrkoacar on Feb 13, 2018, 11:20 PM
Is there gizzard shad in pathfinder or alcova? What are the walleyes main forage food in these lakes? Thanks.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Feb 14, 2018, 12:49 PM
Is there gizzard shad in pathfinder or alcova? What are the walleyes main forage food in these lakes? Thanks.

No shad in Pathfinder or Alcova.  Summer water temperatures are not warm enough for long enough.  Main walleye forage in those lakes are crayfish and various minnow species, especially spottail and emerald shiners, which were stocked in there years ago to provide forage since gizzard shad don't work.  Larger walleye (> 20 inches) tend to favor larger prey items in the 8-14 inch range although we still see a lot of crayfish and smaller fish in stomach samples from big walleye.  The most common large prey items we see in walleye are white suckers and trout.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: bsrkoacar on Apr 22, 2018, 10:37 PM
Is this an ohrid trout? I caught it today at pathfinder. It Was a 26" tank. Caught and released.
(https://s7.postimg.cc/cd0dje0wn/0422181753.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/cd0dje0wn/)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Oct 12, 2018, 01:30 PM
Ok, silly question.....   in Wyo, is it legal to shoot across a gravel road, even if it's a clear safe shot?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: appleye on Oct 12, 2018, 09:06 PM
Is the gravel road public road or a private road? If its a road for public use it's illegal to shoot over. A ranch or private road is ok to shoot over.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Oct 12, 2018, 11:39 PM
 Curious how the Renner reservoir project is coming along? Thank you!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Oct 19, 2018, 06:32 PM
Is the gravel road public road or a private road? If its a road for public use it's illegal to shoot over. A ranch or private road is ok to shoot over.

To follow up on appleye answer, it is illegal to shoot over or FROM a public road.  If there is a right-of-way fence along the road a person shooting has to be across the fence prior to shooting.  If there is no right-of-way fence a person shooting has to be 30 feet or more from the driving surface of the road prior to shooting. 

While on a public road you can not legally get out the vehicle and go out to the fence and use the fence post as a rest and shoot at something.

ClearCreek

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Oct 22, 2018, 08:56 AM
Curious how the Renner reservoir project is coming along? Thank you!
We have awarded the contract for the new boat ramp to a construction out of Worland.  Construction of the ramp won't begin until mid-November at the earliest.  All work on the dam, outlet structure, and inlet pipe is complete.  We will begin shunting water back into the reservoir in a couple weeks but have to let it flow out of the outlet structure to keep the water elevation below the boat ramp.  Once the new ramp is constructed and the concrete has had time to cure we will close the outlet structure and begin filling the reservoir to full pool.  This will be some time in December or early January. Fish will be restocked starting in 2019 with largemouth bass.

Hope this helps
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: prospector on Oct 22, 2018, 10:08 AM
We have awarded the contract for the new boat ramp to a construction out of Worland.  Construction of the ramp won't begin until mid-November at the earliest.  All work on the dam, outlet structure, and inlet pipe is complete.  We will begin shunting water back into the reservoir in a couple weeks but have to let it flow out of the outlet structure to keep the water elevation below the boat ramp.  Once the new ramp is constructed and the concrete has had time to cure we will close the outlet structure and begin filling the reservoir to full pool.  This will be some time in December or early January. Fish will be restocked starting in 2019 with largemouth bass.

Hope this helps
Thanks for letting us know. :bow:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Oct 22, 2018, 01:45 PM
Thanks appleye and clearcreek
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: herf69 on Nov 27, 2018, 08:07 AM
Good Morning Wyoming Game and Fish

I have a little bit of time off this winter, I was wondering if you could recommend a place to ice fish for a Snake River Cutthroat, that would count towards the Wyoming Cutt-Slam?  Any recommendations would be great appreciated.

Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Elkhnter on Nov 27, 2018, 09:01 AM
TO Follow up on the road questions: You can shoot from a road just so long as its not a county road or state highway! If you are on a two track like BLM road you are ok to shoot from your vehicle, across the hood of your truck or whatever you want to do- You need to just be clear of your target.

If you are still unsure of this answer- Just call the G&F they can answer more clearly what is legal and what isn't.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fishm_n on Dec 01, 2018, 10:16 PM
Thanks guys for all the answers on the road question,  it did turn out to be a private road
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 05, 2018, 03:12 PM
Happy to be back on Ice Shanty for the 2018/2019 ice fishing season.  Looking forward to answering questions pertaining to the management of waters within the Laramie Fisheries Management Region  I will be happy to address all issues on fish management of waters in Southeast Wyoming.  When appropriate, I will provide answers based on sound science and professional judgment and look forward to the opportunity to have thoughtful discussions on fisheries issues in Southeast Wyoming. Laramie Plains Lakes anglers, remember there are aeration systems on Meeboer and Gelatt.  Happy to have some great early ice this year!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyoutdoors on Dec 05, 2018, 04:20 PM
Always happy to have you around the Shanty WGFDFishBioLaramie!  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: coldoutside on Dec 07, 2018, 04:19 PM
Are there any fish in north crow?  And are there any fish in east allen? thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WyoMinFisher on Dec 07, 2018, 08:24 PM
Great to have you aboard again!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDLaramieFishBio on Dec 12, 2018, 01:15 PM
Are there any fish in north crow?  And are there any fish in east allen? thanks

Thanks for the question coldoutside!
 
There are fish in both Upper and Lower North Crow Reservoirs. Upper North Crow, which is located in Curt Gowdy State Park, still has larger Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Splake, and Grayling. In addition, 500 Large Rainbow Trout (~20 inches in length) were stocked at the end of November and Tiger Muskie that were stocked between 2015 and 2018 are also present. Anglers are reminded of the statewide minimum length limit on Tiger Muskie, which requires all Tiger Muskie less than 36 inches in length to be released to the water immediately. Rainbow Trout and Tiger Trout were stocked in Lower North Crow in 2018.

No fish are currently being stocked in East Allen as recent survival and growth of stocked Trout was limited. Temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels were studied during the summer of 2018. During this time, temperatures were high (>65F) and dissolved oxygen levels were very low. Since environmental conditions in East Allen were not in the ranges required by trout, it is unclear how the fishery in this lake will be managed in the future.

I hope this helps and if you have any more questions on this information, feel free to call the Laramie Regional Office to speak with a fisheries biologist.

Thanks!!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Dec 15, 2018, 06:28 PM
What will the new reservoir that's going to be built above hyattville going to be stocked with?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MJA on Dec 16, 2018, 08:16 AM
I have fished Bass lake for many years and have always been very successful catching perch of varying sizes. This is the first time a group of us have fished the lake and only caught 2 small perch and 1 small bass. We also, using cameras and sonar had trouble finding weeds. I can only attribute this to the introduction of grass carp and tiger muskies. I strongly believe the grass carp are depleting the weed beds the perch rely on for cover and the tiger muskies are decimating them.

Why in the world would you destroy a great fishery, enjoyed by kids, grownups and seniors, to accommodate 1 individual from Lander that feels tiger muskies are the best. You put them in middle depression, now Bass lake, how soon before they are in Boysen.

We do not want to catch tiger muskies, we want to catch perch. Please return the perch and get rid of the tiger muskies. Thanks

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Dec 16, 2018, 11:57 AM
I fished Bass lake this summer out of the boat and it was non-stop action with perch and blue gills with the occasional bass in there, tried everything from drifting with bobbers to trolling with harnesses or cranks and caught fish every which way some ways were a lot more fish and a lot more lost bait but it was fun, I tried to catch a few tigers out of there but did not have any success in seeing any or catching one, I think the tigers came down the creek from middle depression I do not think they were stocked, The Game and Fish could tell us the best, but I did see that the weeds on the south side of the lake did not grow as well as the north side, we caught a bunch of fish on the north shore and west end and it seemed like once you found the fish it was game on, last year ice fishing it once I notice that the fish did not like the aggressive jigging action that we caught most our fish on the pause and/or dead stick or tip-up with some worm on it, lost a couple of nice fish that I did not get a good hook set on and almost lost a dead stick down the hole to one.  I do like the blue gill in the lake for something other to chase for a bit.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Dec 16, 2018, 04:03 PM
I was informed that flood waters from middle depression allowed the muskies to get in there. Could be a tall tail but seems reasonable. However I’ve never been to middle is it even possible ?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: fish/hunt4ever on Dec 16, 2018, 05:53 PM
The inlet to Bass lake comes right down from Middle depression so it is possible with them connected the way they are, just like Boysen is connected by the outlet into Muddy.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: W8NonICE on Dec 19, 2018, 06:44 PM
I am curious as to how many lines I can fish on Saratoga Lake in Saratoga. I’ve looked at the regs and the wording confuses me to be honest and I can’t tell if the special lakes are 2 or 6 and vice versa. I apologize if it’s a dumb question but better to be safe than sorry I guess?
Thank you
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyomingchad on Dec 19, 2018, 07:53 PM
Two lines at Saratoga.  Listed on page 7 and  8 are the lakes where 6 lines can be used.

https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Regulations/Regulation-PDFs/WYFISHINGREGS_BROCHURE.pdf
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Dec 20, 2018, 10:06 PM
I got some crazy info today from a reliable source. Today I was asked if I ever new about Paddle fish being stocked in the bighorn river. South of Thermopolis. I said what?? Paddle fish. He said Yes and I guess there will be a season. I can't find anything about it but he stated looking at what he has found that game and fish has been stocking for a couple years. So can someone please concur/verify!! Do I have to keep going to Montana in the spring to chase a dinosaur? Or am I going to be able to stay in Wyoming. Is there a season or when does it begin? I'm just curious if we are giving it a shot.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: rbmchief on Dec 21, 2018, 06:57 AM
It’s not paddle fish, it’s sturgeon, just watched the video yesterday, I fish that stretch of river fairly often and I’m pretty excited about them
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Elkhnter on Dec 22, 2018, 08:25 AM
Yes RBMCHIEF is correct- The fish you are talking about is a Sturgeon and the G&F have been releasing them for quite a while now in the Bighorn River. You don't have to go clear down to Thermopolis either as they originate from Lovell down towards Thermopolis..

The only problem is you don't hear of many folks catching them- Don't know if there are better ways to fish for them that would raise your chance of catching one, but i'm sure there could be..
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Dec 28, 2018, 06:16 PM
I would like to ask what the pro/cons of buying small black crappie from out of state and stocking them in local fisheries versus transplanting crappie from keyhole. It seems as though transplanting a more mature fish would be better for both sportsman and the pocket book, as well as possibly helping the crappie fishery in keyhole. ... maybe I’m just shooting in the dark.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Chase..str on Dec 28, 2018, 07:27 PM
Looking to go out to wheatland 1 on the 31st and ice fish does anyone know what the ice conditions are like or should be like by then.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: TiggerTamer on Dec 31, 2018, 04:55 PM
This is a request statewide on a couple of questions. Along with Bass Lake how many other waterbodies in Wyoming have been illegally stocked with yellow perch? How many could the state rehabilitate and at what cost? How many waterbodies in Wyoming have been illegally stocked with tiger muskies? How much has it cost the state to rehabilitate the illegally stocked tiger muskies waterbodies? Thank you for any information you can provide.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MJA on Jan 01, 2019, 12:39 PM
I’d like to apologize for getting hooked on a troll from another. This thread is for information not for banter. I’m sorry for misusing and spewing my opinions when not asked for.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Jan 03, 2019, 09:11 AM
I would like to ask what the pro/cons of buying small black crappie from out of state and stocking them in local fisheries versus transplanting crappie from keyhole. It seems as though transplanting a more mature fish would be better for both sportsman and the pocket book, as well as possibly helping the crappie fishery in keyhole. ... maybe I’m just shooting in the dark.

We have done both in the Casper Region.  We can get Crappie from other states through trades (we do not buy them, rather we trade trout from our hatcheries for crappie from theirs).  The benefit of trading with other states is we can get big numbers and it is inexpensive compared to transplanting.  For example, the load we got this year from Arkansas was around 60,000 fish which went to four different waters around the state.  In cases where we want to stock bigger fish to essentially jump start a fishery with spawning age adults, our only option is to transplant.  This activity is much more labor intensive to catch wild fish with trap nets and electrofishing.  Also, they are much larger so we are looking at only being able to move 600 or so in a single truck.  This equates to the cost being much greater to transplant versus stocking the hatchery fish.  But each method has it's particular uses so we take all information into consideration when making management decisions for a particular water.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Jan 03, 2019, 09:32 AM
This is a request statewide on a couple of questions. Along with Bass Lake how many other waterbodies in Wyoming have been illegally stocked with yellow perch? How many could the state rehabilitate and at what cost? How many waterbodies in Wyoming have been illegally stocked with tiger muskies? How much has it cost the state to rehabilitate the illegally stocked tiger muskies waterbodies? Thank you for any information you can provide.

Based on a statewide review of illegal fish introductions done by the University last year, there have been 18 instances of Yellow Perch showing up in water bodies where the G&F either did not stock them (public waters) or authorize the stocking of (private ponds).  13 of those introductions resulted in establishment of reproducing populations.  Two populations were eradicated (likely rotenone treatments) and one population was managed through reduction in numbers.  I do not have cost estimates but suffice it to say it is very expensive.  Further, eradication of an unwanted species is not always feasible.  The larger the waterbody, the more expensive it is to remove them if you can even be successful.

To my knowledge, Tiger Muskie have not been illegally stocked anywhere in the state. 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Icephishwyo on Jan 03, 2019, 10:52 AM
With the change in ownership of Healy Reservoir can you use a four-wheeler to access the lake like other bodies of water?
Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Jan 03, 2019, 11:09 AM
With the change in ownership of Healy Reservoir can you use a four-wheeler to access the lake like other bodies of water?
Thanks
The short answer right now is no.  A new management plan with the State Engineers Office and the Wyoming Water Development Commission is still in the works. We are not 100% of how the plan will develop and/or if ATV's will be part of the plan or not. Historical rules still apply.
Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Icephishwyo on Jan 03, 2019, 11:13 AM
Thanks  :tipup:
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Doz601 on Jan 03, 2019, 02:12 PM
Thank you for the responses to our recent questions greatly appreciate having you guys on the site!!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: TiggerTamer on Jan 03, 2019, 02:58 PM
Sir;  Thank you for the reply on my illegal stocking questions.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: olefish on Jan 17, 2019, 10:46 AM
I am very confused about the rule nonattendance of fishing lines while ice fishing at night.  I have been told by one G&F warden that it is OK to go to sleep at night  as long as you are within the 300 yard rule of your lines.  I was told by another that a warden has the discretion to say no you are not in attendance if you are sleeping while fishing.  I can not find anything about fishing when sleeping, so what is the truth.  I did not think a warden can decide what a regulation is that conflicts with what another states.   Please help me find the answer.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: waterlike on Jan 17, 2019, 01:00 PM
Hey olefish. If it's not in the regulations than I think the 300 yd rule applies. And any warden that tells you different is wrong. In relation to the law, if there is nothing written that interprets sleeping as not being within 300yds of your lines there is no way they could win that case as presented in court. No citation or regulation says no sleeping while fishing g. I find that when some wardens don't know the answer, they will make one up that sounds right. The majority don't. But some do. I worked as a legal intern in Yellowstone for a summer for the us attorneys office, and saw a few interesting things done by rangers. Most were great and on point.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Jan 17, 2019, 09:53 PM
Hey olefish. If it's not in the regulations than I think the 300 yd rule applies. And any warden that tells you different is wrong.

waterlike:

Would you explain your quote above a little more? 

ClearCreek

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Jan 17, 2019, 10:23 PM
Except as otherwise provided, sh shall only be taken or shed for with a maximum of two (2) rods or poles, with lines and hooks attached and the angler in attendance. No line may have more than three (3) single hooked devices attached. Itis legal to use hand lines, set lines, poles, or tip ups when shing through the ice and the angler is in attendance.
Internal organs, eggs, eyes, ns, and skin of game sh are the only portions that may be used legally as bait. Any part of nongame sh may be used as bait. The use of bait may be restricted on specic waters as described in the Area Regulations on pages 21-31. Use or possession of bait is prohibited in areas or on waters where shing is permitted by the use of articial ies and lures only. Corn may be possessed and used as bait in all waters where shing with bait is permitted.
It is unlawful to snag sh.
A trout bead xed on a line or leader two (2) inches or less from the eye of a bare hook is considered an articial lure. Fishing with a trout bead more than two (2) inches from the eye of a bare hook or articial y is considered snagging and is prohibited.
It is unlawful to take, wound or destroy sh with a rearm of any nature or by using poison, deleterious drug, electrical device, chemical, explosive or any similar substance or device. It is legal to take nongame sh with archery equipment without a license or permit, but it is always unlawful to take game sh with archery equipment.
Articial light may be used while shing with legal shing methods except as prohibited for Underwater Spear Gun Fishing below.
STATEWIDE REGULATIONS
Underwater Spear Gun Fishing
Fish may be taken by underwater spear gun shing only in lakes. No person shall use an underwater spear gun to take game sh under water without obtaining a shing license.
The use of articial light to take game sh with a spear gun is prohibited.
No game sh may be taken unless the underwater spear gun sherman is completely submerged.
All spears used on spear guns shall be attached to the spear gun with a lanyard with a maximum length of twenty (20) feet. Underwaterspeargunshingisnotpermittedwithinonehundred
(100) yards of any designated swimming or water ski areas, boat dock, ramp or spillway.
A diver ag shall be displayed on the water when diving or underwater spear gun shing. It shall be a rectangular ag that is either blue and white in color (alpha ag) or red in color with a white diagonal stripe (diving ag), not less than twelve (12) inches xtwelve (12) inches and displayed noless than three(3)feetabove the surface of the water.
The limit on walleye taken by spear gun shall be two (2) per day or in possession, except where designated as nongame sh or where otherwise provided for Alcova Reservoir in Section 33. All other general and water-specic creel and possession limits shall apply.
SPECIAL WINTER ICE FISHING PROVISION
The following method restrictions apply for waters covered by the Special Winter Ice Fishing Provision.
• The use of more than two (2) lines is permitted only during the ice covered period, and only when the angler is shing through the ice, on waters listed below as being included under the Special Winter Ice Fishing Provision.
• No person shall use more than six (6) lines at any time tosh.
• When using more than two (2) lines, the angler’s name shall be attached to each line, pole or tip-up; the angler shall be no more than three hundred (300) yards from all lines; and, the angler shall check his/her own lines.
The following waters are included under the Special Winter Ice Fishing Provision:
• Alcova Reservoir
• Big Horn Lake in Big Horn County
• Big Sandy Reservoir
• Boulder Lake in Sublette County
• Boysen Reservoir
• Deaver Reservoir in Park County
• Flaming Gorge Reservoir
• Fontenelle Reservoir in Lincoln County
• Glendo Reservoir
• Goldeneye Reservoir
• Gray Reef Reservoir
• Grayrocks Reservoir
• Guernsey Reservoir
• Harrington Reservoir in Big Horn County
• Hawk Springs Reservoir
• Keyhole Reservoir
• Kortes Reservoir
• Lake DeSmet
• Lake Hattie
• Ocean Lake in Fremont County
• Pathnder Reservoir
• Pilot Butte Reservoir
• Seminoe Reservoir
• Sulphur Creek Reservoir in Uinta County
• Wardell Reservoir
• Wheatland Reservoir #1 in Platte County
• Wheatland Reservoir #


So, you need to be in "attendance ".    :)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Jan 17, 2019, 10:35 PM
I think the issue here is what does being "in attendance" actually mean.  That is, how close to your fishing rods do you have to be when you are not holding them in your hand(s).

ClearCreek

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: waterlike on Jan 18, 2019, 07:58 AM
Clear Creek - i was going on what olefish stated, and didn't look closely at the regs before posting. After reading it, You and Matt r I think are correct. It comes down to the meaning of in attendance. I doubt that there is any case law in Wyoming expanding on what in attendance means. And without case law or any other explanation in the regulations or Wyoming statutes, the wardens will interpret "in attendence" how they were taught or see it themselves. I assume. Everything I'm saying is off the top of my head so take it with alot of salt  :) if you do get a ticket for sleeping within 300 yds of your lines, fight it all the way to wy supreme Court and we could get a better definition of in attendance  :) an interesting situation that often occurs is what if the person has alarms on their tipups like bluetipz that will wake them up right when the the flag goes up? What about the guy who is bobber fishing in the middle of the day and falls asleep and drops the pole. Is he in attendance? Laws are hard  :)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: POk3s on Jan 18, 2019, 10:10 AM
Growing up, I know that even when I fell asleep in class, I was still marked as “attended”  ;D

In all seriousness, it sounds like one officer was confused or making something up. It’s common practice for people who camp out at these lakes in the winter, to leave their tip ups out over night, and nobody has been ticketed or even pestered, that I know about.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Elkhnter on Jan 18, 2019, 11:46 AM
When using more than two (2) lines, the angler’s name shall be attached to each line, pole or tip-up; the angler shall be no more than three hundred (300) yards from all lines; and, the angler shall check his/her own lines.

What that means is: If you are within 300 feet of your line you are in "ATTENDANCE". That is the regulation.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Matt R. on Jan 18, 2019, 05:08 PM
Just my opinion but,

I think  it (like a lot of our game and fish regulations )  is written with a bit of "grey area" purposely .

If an angler is quietly enjoying the outdoors ice fishing, obeying all park and  general rules, he will never have a problem with the g&f .
Even if he takes a snooze for 5 or 6 hours in the dead of the night while his lines are soaking, ( so to speak).

Now, if you're a drunk Jerk raising hell with everybody around you,  hauling but on your atv, flags up and not checking anything, leaving trash everywhere, you're probably going to find out that officers definition of " in attendance ".. :)

But, that's just my opinion . ;D
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: POk3s on Jan 18, 2019, 05:26 PM
Hahahahaha! Beautifully put!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: duckman111 on Jan 23, 2019, 10:16 PM
 Why isn't the roach gulch reservoir managed as a fishery?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Yellowstoner on Jan 23, 2019, 10:32 PM
I got some crazy info today from a reliable source. Today I was asked if I ever new about Paddle fish being stocked in the bighorn river. South of Thermopolis. I said what?? Paddle fish. He said Yes and I guess there will be a season. I can't find anything about it but he stated looking at what he has found that game and fish has been stocking for a couple years. So can someone please concur/verify!! Do I have to keep going to Montana in the spring to chase a dinosaur? Or am I going to be able to stay in Wyoming. Is there a season or when does it begin? I'm just curious if we are giving it a shot.

Even if they were to stock them somewhere, they don't run back up river for at least 15 years.  The one I got last year (88lbs) was 48 years old.  It'd be quite a while before you could harvest one that would be worth taking.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Jblazek2010 on Dec 05, 2019, 10:22 AM
Thanks for the help!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: TiggerTamer on Dec 06, 2019, 12:39 PM
Sirs:
  I was wondering how to get a reply from the Meeteetse Game Warden. I've tried multiple times over the years to get information on ice conditions on Lower Sunshine Reservoir; and he never answers his phone or returns my calls. I know hunting season is a busy time, but how long would it take to reply a simple yes or no as to ice presence or a simple "I don't know". Also he continually tells anglers there are no lakers present in Lower Sunshine and I've been told by several anglers he calls their splake, tiger trout. Game and Fish's sampling this past summer captured a fair amount of lakers. Shouldn't a warden have at least a basic knowledge of his fisheries? And isn't fishing and information at least a part of his job since there are no fish specific wardens?  Every since my bone cancer diagnosis my patience isn't what it once was, so I have a harder time being ignored by someone who appears to have little to no interest in doing his job. Or am I just being unreasonable?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Elkhnter on Dec 06, 2019, 03:46 PM
TiggerTamer: I will try to answer a few of your questions so you at least get an answer to them although I'm not the game warden  ;D.

Lower Sunshine lake is about 3/4 capped with 1/4 still open water as of 12/06/2019 so not fishable yet- But upper is so if you want to go catch a fish in that area its doable.

Lake trout do inhabit Lower Sunshine and they caught quite a few last year in 50 or so feet of water but you better have strong line and patients as you might jig all day and only get one bite if your lucky- Then one never knows you might catch 2 or 3???  Most of them are running 5-15 pounds but heard of a few larger ones for sure coming out of there last year!!

Hope that helps.. The other thing you can do is just call the Cody Game and Fish office Mon-Fri as they always answer their phone and can and will answer questions...
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: wyopro on Dec 18, 2019, 06:48 PM
When using more than two (2) lines, the angler’s name shall be attached to each line, pole or tip-up; the angler shall be no more than three hundred (300) yards from all lines; and, the angler shall check his/her own lines.

What that means is: If you are within 300 feet of your line you are in "ATTENDANCE". That is the regulation.

I have no skin in this game as I'm rarely out on the ice at night and have only spent a few nights camping out on ice while ice fishing...however after a conversation with the WG&F Casper Region Supervisor about another topic, I brought this up as I knew the conversation was out there and of interest.

According to him, if you're sleeping you are not "in attendance" regardless of distance.  Below is the Merriam-Webster definition.... gotta say this is an issue they need to clarify.  If I was ticketed for this, unlike all my elk tags I wouldn't eat it.

Definition of "in attendance"
1: present at an event, meeting, etc.
Everyone in attendance voted in favor of the measure.
A number of celebrities were in attendance.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: huntinfool18 on Dec 22, 2019, 08:40 PM
Is it legal to buy flathead minnows out of state?? I don’t intend to sell. I’d like to get a bunch and make salted minnows and also dye and brine them. It’s difficult to get minnows in my area without driving a couple hours.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Dec 22, 2019, 08:47 PM
Is it legal to buy flathead minnows out of state?? I don’t intend to sell. I’d like to get a bunch and make salted minnows and also dye and brine them. It’s difficult to get minnows in my area without driving a couple hours.

No, it is illegal to import live minnows into the state unless you have a bait dealers license.

ClearCreek

Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Mohawk Garage on Dec 22, 2019, 08:47 PM
Is it legal to buy flathead minnows out of state?? I don’t intend to sell. I’d like to get a bunch and make salted minnows and also dye and brine them. It’s difficult to get minnows in my area without driving a couple hours.

There is a guy here in town that sells minnows, look up Dahls minnows on Facebook, I think that's his page, if you don't have luck let me know I have his number.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: huntinfool18 on Dec 22, 2019, 09:15 PM
Thanks for the info. I have his number but it seems like he’s always out of minnows and most of the one I have got from him are tiny. Be good for perch and crappie I suppose. Just looking for different options
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: allornothing on Dec 23, 2019, 10:45 PM
There is a guy here in town that sells minnows, look up Dahls minnows on Facebook, I think that's his page, if you don't have luck let me know I have his number.
That guy is a turd, been stood up by him several times, like everything else in Rawlins, buy it out of town.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: doublehaul on Dec 24, 2019, 03:27 PM
This question is for the Fish biologist that manages Healy Reservoir. Does WYGF plan to continue stocking efforts of Tiger Musky in Healy reservoir? If so, what is the short term and long term plan for stocking? If not,  can you explain why that decision was made?

 One more question: Has the WYGF ever conducted an angler survey to determine angler preference of target species in Healy reservoir?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: allornothing on Dec 24, 2019, 03:40 PM

 One more question: Has the WYGF ever conducted an angler survey to determine angler preference of target species in Healy reservoir?
I know they have angler survey cards at parking lots asking catch numbers of each species and what species was being targeted. Now I dont know how many people take the time to fill out those cards and if the g&f have compiled that information.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: ClearCreek on Dec 25, 2019, 10:41 AM
This question is for the Fish biologist that manages Healy Reservoir. Does WYGF plan to continue stocking efforts of Tiger Musky in Healy reservoir? If so, what is the short term and long term plan for stocking? If not,  can you explain why that decision was made?

 One more question: Has the WYGF ever conducted an angler survey to determine angler preference of target species in Healy reservoir?

In a month or two the perch age and growth data will be analyzed and then future plans for Healy will be formulated.

ClearCreek
 
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Icephishwyo on Dec 25, 2019, 03:54 PM
Clearcreek are you actually the fish biologist?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: gemcityslayer on Dec 29, 2019, 10:22 AM
I know the game and fish has been sticking tiger trout in more and more places.... thank you!!

I know they are in Wheatland 3 now, just curious if they were added to Twin Buttes and North Crow too?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDFishBioLaramie on Dec 30, 2019, 08:08 AM
I know the game and fish has been sticking tiger trout in more and more places.... thank you!!

I know they are in Wheatland 3 now, just curious if they were added to Twin Buttes and North Crow too?

Dear Gemcityslayer,

In southeast Wyoming tiger trout are now in Wheatland #3, Lower North Crow Reservoir, Emigrant Reservoir, Rawlins City Reservoir, and Saratoga Lake. 

Thanks,
WGFDFishBioLaramie
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Dec 30, 2019, 07:24 PM
At one time there were flathead catfish in the North Platte....there's even a state record. Have they exhausted their life span? Is there a stocking program? I haven't heard any news of people catching them...they aren't even listed as a game species in the fishing regulations.

 Also, my buddy told me he had talked to a fisheries biologist in Casper and said they contemplated stocking wipers in Alcova at some point. Was there any truth to this consideration?

Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Jan 02, 2020, 02:13 PM
At one time there were flathead catfish in the North Platte....there's even a state record. Have they exhausted their life span? Is there a stocking program? I haven't heard any news of people catching them...they aren't even listed as a game species in the fishing regulations.

 Also, my buddy told me he had talked to a fisheries biologist in Casper and said they contemplated stocking wipers in Alcova at some point. Was there any truth to this consideration?

Thanks


Flathead Catfish were stocked in the North Platte back in the early 1990's.  Our records show 133 flatheads stocked below Dave Johnston in 1993.  Those fish were around 1 pound each when stocked.  Our summers are too short for successful reproduction, but they are a long-lived species so it is possible that a few are still out there.  They are actually listed as game fish (they are in the Genus Pylodictis...page 20 in the new regs).

As far as Wipers are concerned, yes that is something that has been tossed around, but for Glendo, not Alcova.  We need to gather information from other states to determine if they will even survive or grow well here, determine if forage availability is sufficient, decide if there is a clean source of fish that is free of disease or AIS, etc.  If we were to move forward with it, it would be several years out at least.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Jan 05, 2020, 05:33 PM
oh, wow... very cool. Thank you for the correct info!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: rhinorv on Jan 12, 2020, 08:21 AM
Curious if I could get info on where to find topo maps of upper and lower sunshine reservoirs? Thanks!
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Special on Jan 31, 2020, 09:50 PM
I got one. Minnows, If you purchase couple dozen minnows and decide to split them up in a couple different buckets for easy transportation or group share. Can you have two buckets with one ticket? Got asked this question and I couldn't answer it.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFFishBio on Feb 04, 2020, 09:09 AM
I got one. Minnows, If you purchase couple dozen minnows and decide to split them up in a couple different buckets for easy transportation or group share. Can you have two buckets with one ticket? Got asked this question and I couldn't answer it.
Good question. If you are in a group and you want to split up minnows, the easiest thing to do is to have the bait dealer write a receipt for each bucket you plan to split them up into. For instance, you buy 4 doz minnows and you have two buckets, have the dealer write two receipts for 2 doz each. That way, each group has their own record of receipt. We don't care who purchases the minnows, we just need the minnows accounted for. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: MJA on Feb 10, 2020, 12:16 PM
How many Tiger Muskies and grass carp were stocked in Bass lake? What is the final goal of this program?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: jakediesel1 on Feb 10, 2020, 03:15 PM
im not affiliated with game and fish but you can go on the website and download 2018 and 2019 full stocking reports for the whole state. on 2019 stocking report it shows that 499 Tiger muskie were introduced at a length of 5.4" and 28,770 largemouth bass at a length 0f .3" in Bass Lake (Lake Cameahwait). Does not mention any grass carp. very informational reports to look at.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: akaakira on Jan 03, 2021, 06:59 PM
So, I just got back from fishing one of the many ponds throughout the state that gets stocked with many diverse species by the Game & Fish. It was unproductive, but a fun, exploratory, "seeing new country" kind of day. However, it made me wonder, for example, when the Game & Fish stocks a pond like Lake McKenzie in Casper, I see a lot of different predators being stocked into a small pond every year, that has limited access from the bank, a fairly small sized body of water, and heavy restrictions on bait fish use. My question is this... is additional forage/bait fish added to the ecosystem to sustain these stockings as well, or do they simply rely on predation of "young of the year" to sustain the habitat...essentially fending for themselves? Thanks
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WGFDcasper on Jan 04, 2021, 10:25 AM
So, I just got back from fishing one of the many ponds throughout the state that gets stocked with many diverse species by the Game & Fish. It was unproductive, but a fun, exploratory, "seeing new country" kind of day. However, it made me wonder, for example, when the Game & Fish stocks a pond like Lake McKenzie in Casper, I see a lot of different predators being stocked into a small pond every year, that has limited access from the bank, a fairly small sized body of water, and heavy restrictions on bait fish use. My question is this... is additional forage/bait fish added to the ecosystem to sustain these stockings as well, or do they simply rely on predation of "young of the year" to sustain the habitat...essentially fending for themselves? Thanks
Every pond is a little different, but with McKenzie, young of year Green Sunfish along with YOY white suckers and carp, provide the forage base for the larger Bass, Crappie and Catfish.  Based on our electrofishing surveys, there is plenty of forage in there, which is why that lake grows 19-inch Largemouth, state record sized sunfish and 10+ pound Channel Cats.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: 7lazy77 on Jan 07, 2021, 12:42 AM
Looking for some clarification since I am having a hard time finding much.  Where can I go to find the regulations on operating a 4-wheeler/snowmobile on lakes during the winter?  I would like to know what lakes allow motorized atv's on & do you need any kind of permits to operate them on the lakes?  Any help is appreciated.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: HunterK on Jan 13, 2021, 03:14 PM
I know I can use my gas auger on Jackson Lake, but am I allowed to do so in some of the smaller lakes in GTNP?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: WyoJon on Dec 10, 2022, 10:39 AM
The game and fish are great for providing information. Their website even shows stocking records for lakes
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: DeHaai44 on Jan 15, 2023, 01:49 AM
I know this topic probably gets beat to death.   I am curious why Game and Fish doesn't stock perch into pathfinder or alcova.  I have talked to a few and no one has giving me a valid reason as to why.   I just think it would be cool to get a pan fish species in those lakes and offer another form of forage for bigger fish species.
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Motopsycho on Feb 23, 2023, 06:14 PM
Is WYG&F involved in Roach Gulch?
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Meek on Feb 23, 2023, 11:53 PM
Looked the fishing regulations up and down and can't find creel limits on kokanee for alcova, pathfinder, de smet???? Why is there nothing there? ??? ??? ??? ::)
Title: Re: ASK THE WYOMING GAME AND FISH
Post by: Schlager on Feb 24, 2023, 09:26 AM
Kokanee are included in the creel and possession limit for trout and are listed as salmon.