Evaluating Assumptions of Mark–Recapture Studies for Estimating Angling Exploitation of Walleyes in Northern Wisconsin Lakes

Abstract

AbstractTo test for violations of the assumptions of mark–recapture studies used to estimate angling exploitation rates of walleye Sander vitreus in northern Wisconsin lakes, we estimated the recapture rate (R/C) of walleyes previously marked for each month of the angling year for five length categories: all lengths combined, less than 12 in, 12–15 in, 15–20 in, and 20 in or larger. The recapture rate declined significantly during the year for all walleye length‐classes combined and for all length‐classes except walleyes 12–15 in long. The R/C ratio in May increased with length. We conclude that fin regeneration, which contributed to lack of mark recognition, or higher mortality due to marking, may have reduced the number of marks in the R/C ratio and therefore may have biased estimates of walleye angling exploitation rates.