Characteristics of an Introduced Walleye Population with Implications for Suppression

The management of introduced fishes, including Walleye Sander vitreus, whether for control or enhancement, requires understanding population dynamics at the invasion front. recently established in Pend Oreille basin, Idaho, threaten existing salmonid-based fish community and associated recreational fishery. Therefore, objectives this study were to describe growth life history characteristics. sampled October 2011, 2014, 2017 using a standardized gill netting survey protocol trends relative abundance evaluate dynamics. Relative increased exponentially from 1.4 4.3 fish/net over 6-year monitoring period. This was characterized by fast somatic growth, robust body condition, early age maturity near biological maxima Walleye. Among years, mean length 2 varied female (359–441 mm) male (358–426 weight 91 98. matured 1 4 years age, recruitment became more consistent as increased. These density-dependent metrics suggest that is still low density carrying capacity. information gained used better understand potential risks guide decisions related experimental suppression now underway. Suppression under these conditions must overcome capabilities population. We conclude natural mortality likely regulated processes. current (low) density, fishing may be entirely additive compensation unlikely further complicate management.