Population Dynamics of Black Crappies and White Crappies in Weiss Reservoir, Alabama: Implications for the Implementation of Harvest Restrictions

Abstract We examined the effects of angling and the advisability of imposing harvest restrictions on the fishery for black crappies Pomoxis nigromaculatus and white crappies P. annularis at Weiss Reservoir, Alabama. A nonuniform probability, roving creel survey was conducted in conjunction with a tag-reward program. Based on tags returned during the crappie fishing seasons of March–May 1988 and February–April 1989, total annual mortality was estimated at 73%. Targeted effort for crappies was 11.7 h/hectare in 1988 and 13.4 h/hectare in 1989. Catch per unit effort also increased slightly in 1989. Fishing mortality (F = 34%) accounted for only 20% of total annual mortality. Because of the high natural mortality and low exploitation, harvest restrictions on the Weiss Reservoir crappie fishery do not appear warranted at this time.