Walleye and Sauger Predation on Paddlefish in Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota

Abstract

Abstract Predation by walleye Stizostedion vitreum and sauger S. canadense on paddlefish Polyodon spathula was noted in Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota. Percid predation on paddlefish was detected at two of three sampling stations in September and at one sampling station in October. In October, 73% of the percids with identifiable food contained at least one paddlefish. Total length of ingested paddlefish ranged from 36 to 52% of percid total lengths. When designing stocking programs, fisheries managers should consider percid predation as a potential source of mortality of stocked paddlefish.