At this time each year, I monitor the creeks and rivers surrounding Loon Lake for signs of spawning walleye, as part of an ongoing MNR project. Nightly trips to several locations are made and weather conditions, water temperatures, water speed, and water depth are recorded. Using a very bright halogen floodlight, the streambed is briefly illuminated and the number of pairs of reflective walleye eyes are recorded. The sizes of the fish are estimated and recorded. I also watch for signs of spawning activity - as is indicated by fish splashing in the river.
The work lasts until I see suckers in the river or stop seeing any fish activity. After the survey, the results are given to an MNR fish biologist.
While I find the work fascinating, the data gathered is invaluable in the management of Loon Lake’s fishery.
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