Evaluation of a 40-Inch Muskellunge Length Limit at Berlin Reservoir

摘要

A 40-inch muskellunge Esox masquinongy length limit at Berlin Reservoir failed toachieve the management objective of producing a self-sustaining stock of at least 1 adult muskellunge per 5 acres by 1996. Emigration and spring water levels influenced muskellunge population density, but angler harvest did not because anglers caught few muskellunge and released most of their catch. In some years emigration resulted in greater losses of muskellunge from the reservoir than did angler harvest. Year class success appeared related to spring water levels because strong year classes followed high water levels during April and May, whereas weak year classes followed low water levels during these months. Continuation of the 40-inch muskellunge length limit was not justified biologically.