Factors influencing survival and growth of stocked walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) in a centrarchid-dominated impoundment

Mean survival based on fall population estimates 1 and 2 yr after stocking indicated highest survival for large fingerlings (mean survival 31 and 10%, respectively), followed by medium ones (7 and 4%). Thermal stress at stocking and predation by largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides were more important that either hooking mortality or spillway escapement in influencing survival. Walleye diets were dominated by bluegill Lepomis macrochirus in volume (87%) and frequency of occurrence (84%). Growth rates were slower with bluegill as predominant prey compared with walleye growth in waters containing clupeids and cyprinids and may have been influenced by the abundance and size distribution of bluegill. Stocking walleye >200 mm provided the highest return on investment. -from Authors