1999 Warmwater Fisheries Survey of Palmer Lake (Okanogan County), Washington

Palmer Lake was surveyed June 21-25 and September 12-15, 1999, using a boat electrofisher, gill nets, and fyke nets. A total of 12 and 15 fish species were observed during the June and September sampling efforts, respectively. More fish were collected by boat electrofisher than gill nets or fyke nets. Electrofishing catch rates were highest for peamouth (Mylocheilus caurinus) (26.8 fish/hr) and black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) (60.3 fish/hr) during the June and September sampling periods, respectively. Smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) were the most abundant warmwater gamefish observed in both June (22%) and September (32%). Largescale sucker (Catostomus macrocheilus) produced the most biomass in the June (32.7%) and September (35.3%) samples. Proportional stock density (PSD) values indicate a relatively large proportion of the largemouth bass (M. salmoides) and smallmouth bass were of at least the preferred length category. Several smallmouth bass in the relative stock density (RSD) trophy category were observed. No black crappie, bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), or yellow perch (Perca flavescens) of greater than quality length were observed in our samples. Largemouth bass sampled in September ranged from 96 to 565 mm total length (TL), and appeared to be in good condition with few fish exhibiting relative weights less than 100. Smallmouth bass (ages 1-7) ranged from 93 to 590 mm (TL) but were below the statewide growth average except for age 5 fish. Relative weights of smallmouth bass were below the national average for most fish. Black crappie ranged in age from 1 to 6 years and growth was both above (ages 1, 4-6) and below (ages 2 and 3) the statewide average. Relative weights of black crappie were higher during September with few fish having relative weights less than 85. Bluegill sampled in September ranged from 80 to 180 mm (TL). Relative weights of most bluegill were above the national average and few fish had relative weights less than 100. Yellow perch (ages 1-5) ranged from 73 to 235 mm (TL). Growth of age 1, 2, and 3 yellow perch were above the statewide average, but below the statewide average for ages 4 and 5. Condition of yellow perch sampled in June and September were similar. Most fish were below the national average. No regulation changes are recommended at this time. We recommend stocking black crappie and bluegill to increase the prey base for smallmouth and largemouth bass, and to increase angling opportunities. We also recommend that periodic warmwater fish surveys should be conducted to monitor the size structure and condition of gamefish, including burbot, in Palmer Lake. In addition, future monitoring would likely forecast whether additional panfish stocking will be needed and/or whether adjustments in regulations should be made.