Abstract
A simple population model of western Lake Erie walleye was constructed using empirical relationships linking growth to population density and recruitment to breeding stock size and the spring water temperature regime. Given a reasonable set of values for annual rates of natural and fishing mortalities, consistent with empirical estimates of total survival for the period from 1947 to 1975, the model generated a pattern of behaviour similar, both qualitatively and quantitatively, to that exhibited by the real population. Two types of stochastic model, based on the initial population model, were used to derive optimal harvest strategies for the population. Optimal strategies were not sensitive to variations in catchability and natural mortality. Yields produced were highly sensitive to variations in both these factors. A refined and extended version of this model may serve as a useful tool in developing realistic management policies for this population. Key words: Percidae, dynamic model, population model, Stizostedion, Lake Erie walleye, growth, density, survival, management implication
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