Sunday, January 22, 2012

Fisheries professionals discuss the future of walleye research

The wide distribution and exquisite flavor of walleye Sander vitreus have made it one of the most popular game fish, not only in Wisconsin, but throughout the country.  It is also important to the Chippewa Tribes of Wisconsin as part of their cultural heritage and as a source of food.  It is, therefore, critical for fisheries managers to make sound management decisions based on the best science available.  In the December 2011 issue of Fisheries, Baccante et al. (2011) summarized a discussion forum held at the 2011 American Fisheries Society meeting on gaps in walleye research.  Here, I outline some of the research needs identified by Baccante et al. (2011).  With walleye on the agenda at the Conservation Congress meetings in April, this information could be useful to attendees appearing on behalf of the walleye.