Deep Water Netting Research Resumes on Lake Pend Oreille
 

Deep water trap nets will again be used for research purposes on Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho this fall and winter. The effort marks the second year of a study designed to provide information on the lake's fish populations and to aid in fishery management.

The nets are only being used for research purposes. They will not be used for population control. With the exception of a small percentage of fish sacrificed for age and maturity determination, all fish will be released alive.

The purpose of the project is to update the lake trout population estimate to see if anglers are being effective at keeping the lake trout population from expanding. The gear will also be used to gain more information about the lake whitefish population and their life history to better understand the role lake whitefish play in the lake's fish community.

Placement of the nets in Lake Pend Oreille will start after the Labor Day weekend on Tuesday, September 6. Up to nine nets will be fished through the winter. There will be a six week shut-down period during the December/January time frame. All nets will be removed from the lake by the end of April.

Deepwater trap nets are anchored on the lake bed at depths of 180 feet and shallower. The nets are marked on the surface by U.S. Coast Guard-approved buoys. Net locations will be posted at marinas and boat launches. Nets may occasionally be moved to increase their efficiency or to avoid conflicts with anglers. Anglers with downriggers should avoid trolling between the buoys.
Deep water trap nets are a type of live entrapment gear used on the Great Lakes to selectively harvest lake whitefish and lake trout. Fish can be released from the nets unharmed.

The same nets were used on Lake Pend Oreille during the winter of 2003-2004 to evaluate the lake trout population. Concerns about a declining kokanee population and expanding predator population prompted the action.

At over 90,000 surface acres, Pend Oreille is Idaho's biggest lake, with a maximum depth of over 1100 feet.

For additional information on the project, contact Ned Horner at the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, (208) 769-1414.

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