Catch-and-Release Management of a Trout Stream Contaminated with PCBs

Abstract

Abstract Due to health risks associated with PCB contamination, the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection chose to apply catch-and-release regulations to the Housatonic River, which had previously supported one of the most popular put-and-take trout fisheries in Connecticut. The management change was successful in maintaining a highly rated recreational fishery. Stocked brown trout Salmo trutta survived up to five summers and grew to maximum total lengths of about 400 mm. Through 5 years, fish stocked as adults (254–305 mm) and yearlings (152–229 mm) had average annual survivals of 39 and 42%, respectively. Survival of fingerlings (< 152 mm) averaged 22%. With holdover trout present after the first year of catch-and-release management, 50-66% of the fish caught by anglers exceeded the maximum length of 305 mm of trout stocked for put-and-take purposes in other Connecticut streams. Also, an average of 38% more trout by number and 210% more trout by weight were caught and released than were sto...