Some Factors Influencing Seasonal Changes in Angler Catch in a Minnesota Lake

Abstract

An investigation was undertaken in a small Minnesota lake to determine the relationship between angler success for northern pike (Esox lucius), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), and crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) and food availability and food selectivity by these species. Fishing success was determined by creel census and food selectivity by stomach analysis of angler-caught fish. Food availability was determined by bottom sampling and shore seining for small fish. Over a 3-year period anglersˈ catch was highest in June and lowest in late summer. Angling success was inversely related to food availability and food intake, but changes in physical and chemical factors did not appear to be related to rate of angler take.