Evaluation of Muskellunge Management and Stocking Strategies in Iowa

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking research to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of Muskellunge stocking strategies in Iowa's lakes and reservoirs. This study aims to identify and refine Muskellunge culture methods, including the use of Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS), and stocking policies to enhance survival rates, optimize habitat use, and ultimately improve recreational fishing opportunities. Key tasks include population dynamics analysis through fish tagging, system-specific criteria development for optimizing fisheries, and overall project management within the Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit (CESU) framework. The research will involve tagging Muskellunge with PIT and acoustic/radio transmitters to monitor post-stocking survival, movement, behavior, and habitat use. Findings will inform adaptive management strategies and potentially guide recommendations for barrier installations to improve fish retention. The study will also assess habitat and fisheries survey data to tailor stocking and management plans to different aquatic systems and evaluate the feasibility of reducing fish escapement. Ultimately, this research will update Iowa's Muskellunge Management Plan and serve as a model for improving fisheries management nationwide, with a focus on enhancing angler success and economic benefits. This opportunity is restricted to non-federal partners of the Great Rivers Cooperative Ecosystems Studies Unit (CESU) and is funded as a cooperative agreement with an estimated total program funding of $446,000.