Catch Charts
2004 - 2014
For the past 11 years, a select few individuals have been tagging brook trout and recording data on a volunteer basis for the Ministry of Natural Resources. The charts represent the 1258 fish that we have tagged from 2004 to 2014. This is only the data gathered by two individual volunteers and does not represent the total tagging population of the program sponsored by the Ministry of natural Resources.
The full MNR report is located here: "Update on brook trout rehabilitation..."
The following charts have been created based on our annual data and each chart has been organized as follows:
In 2005, the minimum length to retain a memorable Brook Trout in the Nipigon system changed from 18" to 22". On each graph,
the red line ( __________ ) indicates the length of those 'memorable' fish that potentially could be kept at 22" and over.
Note how this regulation has helped protect a significant proportion of the tagged population. Practice "Catch & Release"
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2004-1014 Percent of Total Population Per Inch
Ontario regulations state for zone 6 (Nipigon system), that only one brook trout 22" or larger may be kept. According to the summary graph, this protects 92% of the population.
practice "Catch and Release"
All of the annuall data charts have been combined into one chart showing the % of the population based on length in inches. It show two distinct average fish sizes over multiple years. There is one bulge in the graph for fish sized 13-15 inches and there is another bulge in the graph for fish in the 18-12 inch range. The current regulation of not keeping any fish inthe Nipigon system under 22", protects the bulk of the fish in the overall population and facilitates reproduction so the stock can be maintained.
The "Tagging Program" and gathering of data is critical to the long term survival and protection of brook trout in the Nipigon system.
The MNR continues to experience cut backs to programs and personnel and I want input as part of the fishing public. With the retirement of Nipigon biologist Rob Swainson after 30+ years, The Co-operative Angler Program seems to have run its course and is now in limbo. It has been a lot of work for me and others, but I felt it was necessary to contribute rather than just sit back and complain about the condition of our fishery. After all, what is the alternative for making sustainability decisions? To me, the program was about gathering data to make informed decisions and educate, not about personal glory or bragging any more than someone who publishes a “grin” shot, as we all do from time to time. I tried to do my part and contribute, but now it is time to just enjoy the fishing.
…and what are you doing???
Some interesting stats over 11 years
"fabulous wilderness fishing…
is enough to make a fisherman break out in speckles himself”
Kirkland Alexander, 1905