Comparison of Sampling Techniques for Capturing Larval Walleyes in Northern Wisconsin Lakes

Although ichthyoplankton nets and light traps are commonly used to capture larval fish, previous studies have not provided definitive guidance regarding which gear is the most effective for collecting larval walleyes Sander vitreus. As part of a project designed to examine walleye recruitment bottlenecks, we will use both sampling methods to collect larval walleye from several northern Wisconsin lakes. Our primary objective is to determine if one of the gears is more effective for capturing larval walleyes, and if the effectiveness of each gear varies in relation to sampling date. Additionally, we will determine if catch rates of larval walleyes in ichthyoplankton nets differs between tows conducted during the day and at night. Results of these analyses will be used to select larval sampling procedures for the remainder of our study and will provide sampling guidance for future studies.