Postharvest Length Changes of Angler-Caught Walleyes

Abstract

Abstract Information concerning postharvest changes in fish length is important in the enforcement of length-based regulations. We evaluated whether the total length of walleye Stizostedion vitreum changed following angler harvest and being frozen. Walleyes were collected by angling during open-water periods at various water temperatures and during ice cover. To simulate angler practices, postharvest walleyes were placed in a cooler containing ice or in a live well. Postharvest, open-water-collected walleyes were measured at 1-h intervals through 10 h, at 20 h, and after 30 d of frozen storage. Walleyes collected during ice fishing were measured through 36 h, at 44 h, and after 30 d of frozen storage. All collected walleyes were frozen for 30 d because it is often the time period that fish are held before being introduced as evidence in court. Postharvest walleyes held in a cooler tended to lose length, the greatest decrease occurring from those collected at the coldest water temperatures. A two-way analy...