2008 Walleye Tagging Study
The Department is tagging walleyes at several locations across the Commonwealth this spring to learn more about angler catch rates and harvest. Tagging is planned for Lake Whitehurst, Leesville Lake, Hungry Mother Lake, South Holston Reservoir, Lake Brittle and the New River.
Anglers who catch a tagged fish and return the tag will receive a cash reward. The tag will be located near the fish's dorsal fin. Anglers can remove the tag by cutting through the plastic attachment with scissors or a knife. The fish can then be released or harvested (minimum length limits apply at South Holston Reservoir and the New River). Successful anglers can return the tag and catch information to the address printed on the tag. Important catch data include the contact information of the angler and the answers to a few simple questions.
- What were the date, time and general location of the catch?
- Was the fish harvested or released?
- Were you fishing for walleyes?
- Finally, did you catch other walleyes?
The information gathered from successful anglers will help biologists make important decisions about managing walleye fisheries. This tagging study is part of the ongoing efforts to improve walleye fishing opportunities in Virginia.