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Note: Session titles beginning with an asterisk (*) have student presenters.
AUTHORS: Dennis J. Renfro & Brandon C. Thompson - Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
ABSTRACT: Resource managers and researchers are working together to enhance angling opportunities on a 76,000 acre plus chain of lakes by initiating a large scale artificial fish attractor program to increase angler catch rates and engage stakeholders. Our vision was to develop an artificial habitat program that increased sport fishing effort and fostered strong support from local community. Focusing on the goal to install hundreds of artificial plastic structures in strategic locations throughout the chain of lakes to provide additional off-shore fishing opportunities that would increase angler effort and enhance fishing success for sport fish. At one lake within the chain, researchers have been evaluating how artificial plastic fish attractors perform versus the long established practice of utilizing natural brush. Although results have been variable, plastic and natural brush attractors have had similar electrofishing catch rates and angler catch rates for bass. Economically the cost of man-made plastic fish attractors are higher than the initial cost of woody brush, but the anticipated longevity of the plastic structure and consistent biomass of structure of plastic far exceeds the relative short life span of woody brush. Primary key to success is forming great relationships with your stakeholder groups. Volunteers from small and large fishing clubs actively engaged in fish attractor site selection and provided vital contribution of manpower during construction. The Artificial Fish Attractor program meets the goals of FWC’s strategic plan in providing residents and visitors with quality fishing.
Wednesday November 1, 2017 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Jones