2004 Warmwater Fisheries Survey of Roses Lake, Chelan County, Washington

Roses Lake was surveyed by the Region 2 Warmwater Team September 27-30, 2004. Nine fish species were collected during sampling efforts. Largemouth bass was the most abundant fish species collected, followed by yellow perch. Biomass of largemouth bass (161.6 kg) collected during this survey was among the highest when compared to collections from other regional waters. Stock density indices indicated largemouth bass and panfish were found in the management range described by Gabelhouse et al. (1984) as the panfish option. Nine age classes of largemouth bass were collected. All ages, except age nine, were represented well in our samples, an indication that Roses Lake largemouth bass exhibit consistent recruitment and survival. Relative weights of largemouth bass were well above average for most fish.

Bluegill, pumpkinseed, and yellow perch were present in adequate numbers to provide prey for largemouth bass and harvest for anglers. While these species were present in larger sizes, and, with the exception of yellow perch, were in above average condition, low numbers of young were collected and may be a concern in the future. A total of 49 channel catfish were collected during this survey, averaging 1.2 kg or 2.6 pounds each. These fish were primarily the result of 3,500 channel catfish fingerlings stocked in Roses Lake during 1999.

We recommend stocking channel catfish yearly or bi-yearly depending on channel catfish availability. Warmwater surveys should be conducted every three to four years to monitor the fish community and make timely management decisions.