ANS Recap Synopsis

Wednesday, 12/12/2024

2024 Aquatic Invasive Species Report

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has wrapped up its 2024 aquatic invasive species (AIS) monitoring and detection efforts. This year, the department processed 1,952 plankton tow net samples from 172 water bodies across the state as part of the QZM early detection program. South Golden Lake was the only site with positive samples for zebra mussels (ZM). Additionally, the department collected 1,500 rake, substrate, and snorkel samples. These efforts led to the detection of Eurasian watermilfoil at the confluence ramp on the Missouri River near Williston and flowering rush at School Section Lake in the Turtle Mountains. Over the past few weeks, fisheries and AIS staff conducted public dock inspections at access points statewide, finding them all clean.

On Lake Oahe, a single mussel was discovered at the Cow Creek Ramp, the same location where South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks detected two mussels last year. The ramp is situated at the southern end of the lake. Despite this finding, no evidence of a significant zebra mussel population was observed, particularly in the North Dakota portion of the lake. These results suggest a slow upstream spread, a positive sign for the lake's overall health.

Looking ahead, many terms for the Aquatic Invasive Species Committee (AISC) voting members will expire in 2024, and renewal letters for the 2025–2027 term will be sent out soon.

The department’s work this year underscores the critical role of vigilant monitoring and proactive measures in protecting North Dakota’s aquatic ecosystems from invasive species.

Top 3 Headlines for November

Sunday, 11/24/2024

Record Salmon Spawning on Lake Sakakawea
In 2024, North Dakota Game and Fish completed its successful annual salmon spawning operation on Lake Sakakawea, collecting 1.9 million Chinook salmon eggs. Fisheries supervisor Russ Kinzler reported excellent weather and abundant fish numbers, with a noticeable increase in the size of salmon compared to previous years. The eggs collected will support the stocking of 350,000 smolts in Lake Sakakawea by 2025. Additionally, over 715,000 eggs were shared with South Dakota’s salmon program. This operation is vital for maintaining a healthy salmon population in the region, as salmon cannot naturally reproduce in North Dakota.

Devils Lake Sees Strong Walleye Fishing Season in 2024
The walleye fishing season in Devils Lake has been exceptionally good in 2024, with anglers reporting high catch rates and larger-than-usual fish. The lake's stable water levels, coupled with improved habitat conditions, have contributed to the healthy walleye population. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department encourages responsible fishing practices to maintain the lake's ecosystem and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy world-class fishing.

New Ice Fishing Regulations for 2024
To manage fishing pressure and protect vulnerable species, the North Dakota Game and Fish Department introduced updated regulations for ice fishing in 2024. Changes include limits on daily fish harvests, new restrictions on certain areas, and rules to prevent overfishing of popular species like walleye and northern pike. These new regulations aim to maintain the health of the state's fisheries and support sustainable fishing practices throughout the winter season.

Salmon Spawn Completed

Friday, 11/08/2024

Fisheries crews in North Dakota successfully completed their annual salmon spawning operation on Lake Sakakawea, collecting 1.9 million eggs for the 2024 season. Russ Kinzler, the Missouri River System fisheries supervisor, described the spawn as "almost perfect," with a high number of fish and favorable weather. This year, they also observed a notable increase in the size of the salmon compared to last year, with the average size of female salmon at 5.8 pounds—over a pound larger than in 2023. The operation not only collected enough eggs for Lake Sakakawea but also helped South Dakota by providing over 715,000 eggs for their salmon program. The eggs will be used to stock 350,000 smolts in Lake Sakakawea by 2025. Since salmon cannot naturally reproduce in North Dakota, the fish are captured and transported to Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery for egg collection. After hatching, the young salmon spend six months in the hatchery before being released into the lake.

Source: https://gf.nd.gov/news-releases