| Abstrakt: |
A 0.2-hectare channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, catchout pond was operated for three fishing seasons to develop techniques beneficial to both angler and pond owner. During the first two seasons catfish were cage-reared to catchable size in the catchout pond and periodically released to replace fish caught by anglers. The larger and/or faster-growing catfish were more vulnerable to capture by hook-and-line angling than the smaller and/or slower growing individuals. During the second season cage-reared fish were released more frequently, while “hard-to-catch” fish were trapped or seined from the pond and caged for a week before returning them to the pond. Caging the fish for a short time did not improve catchability, but fish reared in cages were highly vulnerable to angling when released. During the third year largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, were stocked along with the catfish, and both species were maintained on a pellet diet. In 65 fishing days anglers harvested 90% of the catfish and 83% of the bass. The high catch rate was attributed to fluctuations in the amount of pellets offered and interspecies competition for the available food. Angler interest was more constantly maintained because the bass would bite during those periods when the catfish would not. Applying theoretical cost accounting, net income per hectare ranged from $713.45 to $3,892.35. |
Plný text