Assessment of Angler Use and Catch During 2016 at Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska

Recreational fishing provides many socioeconomic and ecological benefits. These benefits are derived in many different forms that can lead to an increased quality of life and income generated across many different spatial scales. This importance has led to increased demands on these fisheries, often causing overexploitation, selective harvest, sub–lethal effects, and disturbance or harvest during critical reproductive periods. Consequently, there is a need to better understand social–ecological relationships and impacts between humans and fish populations.

Goals

The purpose of this study is to estimate angler use and catch at Sutherland Reservoir, Nebraska, during April through October 2016. Specifically, we will obtain monthly and yearly estimates of angler pressure, catch, and harvest. This information will allow the Nebraska Public Power District to evaluate angler use and influence of the fishery at Sutherland Reservoir. Collected data could also be used to guide management efforts between optimizing hydropower and maintaining a quality fishery at this multi–use reservoir.