Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Units Program: Montana Fishery
Education, Research and Technical Assistance for Managing Our Natural Resources

This project will use otolith microchemistry to differentiate between hatchery-reared and naturally reproduced walleye in Fort Peck Reservoir. In addition, otolith microchemistry analyses will shed light on potential spawning and rearing areas in the reservoir. Our goal in this study is; 1) Quantify annual hatchery walleye fingerling contribution to the fishery, 2) quantify the level of natural reproduction and recruitment to the fishery, 3) Add insight to the level of walleye fry (natural vs. hatchery) contribution to the fishery and 4) assess stocking practices (timing, location, density, etc.) with the goal of achieving a smarter stocking strategy.