LDWF Releases 2010 Atchafalaya Basin Fishing Survey Results
OutdoorHub 07.29.11
July 28, 2011 – In an effort to better capture the requests of the fishing community of the Atchafalaya Basin, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) issued surveys to 2,000 resident recreational fishermen within 60 miles of the basin. In addition to biological data, department biologists recognize the importance of angler opinion in fish management. The intent of the survey was to determine desired management for bass in waters than include the Atchafalaya Basin, Henderson Lake and the Verret/Grassy/Palourde Complex.
Preferences for bass regulations in all three water bodies varied based upon regional differences of respondents.
For the Atchafalaya Basin, results show that the majority of survey respondents want to keep the current 10 fish daily limit for bass. This finding was constant among all survey respondents. Results for desired creel limits in Henderson Lake and the Verret/Grassy/Palourde Complex were less pronounced. The most common response was a preference for the current 10 fish daily limit.
Responses indicate Atchafalaya Basin anglers are satisfied with the current 14-inch minimum size limit. Angler opinions for bass size limits in Henderson Lake were similar to those for the Atchafalaya Basin, with 36 percent of responses indicating a desire to keep the current size limit. However, opinion differed for the Verret/Grassy/Palourde Complex. Thirty-seven percent of responses indicated a preference to decrease or remove the size limit.
For all three water bodies, results show that respondents who prefer lower creel limits also prefer no change to the current size limit. Anglers who prefer increased daily limits want to eliminate or reduce the current 14-inch size limit.
To access the full report on the survey results, visit www.wlf.louisiana.gov/publication/2010-atchafalaya-henderson-and-verret-black-bass-survey.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. For more information, visit us at www.wlf.louisiana.gov on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ldwffb or follow us on Twitter @LDWF.
