A comprehensive fisheries survey conducted recently by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) revealed encouraging information about fish population densities, angling pressure and harvest.

One big difference biologists noted between older studies and the latest survey was a dramatic increase in the catch and harvest rates of bass and bluegills. Perch and crappies also showed major increases.

However, walleyes and muskies remained the species most popular with anglers -- and for good reasons. The Chippewa Flowage's walleye population appears to be in very good shape. Likewise, angler harvests are well within acceptable limits. During the DNR study, approximately 14 percent of the catchable walleyes were taken. As for muskies, the big predators are still enjoying excellent natural reproduction success, despite increases in northern pike numbers and recruitment continues to be the backbone of the muskie population.

At the time of the study, about 80 percent of the Flowage's muskies were produced naturally. To bolster the population, the DNR stocks 2,500 muskie fingerlings each fall. There is also a significant number of natural hybrid muskies. Even so, DNR biologists caution that catch and-release fishing is key to maintaining the thriving muskie fishery.