July 9, 2003
Reporter: Paul Bender
Videographer: Brad Rice
You will be shocked to learn how the Division of Natural Resources is catching fish. I've got the electrifying news as we hit the lake.
If this boat were to be given a name, it would be called the shocker. That's because this special division of natural resources boat sends an electric current into the water stunning all fish in its path.
Literally, what we are doing here is using electricity to catch fish. Now, although, the fish look hurt, don't worry they're not.
Mark Scott, a West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Fisheries Biologist, said, "This is our live well. After we get through shocking the fish, we release them into the live well. As you can see these fish are healthy, they're not hurt at all."
So why are WV DNR researchers using electricity to catch fish? Research.
"It is very simple way to collect excellent data and very helpful data. It's easy to do, it's inexpensive and saves the state money. It also gives us a good idea what's out there," said Scott.
The data collected from the stunned fish help the DNR determine the status of our lakes and rivers.
Mark Scott says the information is important. "We get weight, length and age, which will tell us the health of the fish population. Also, we identify fish that shouldn't be here."
And so far the electro fishing research is paying off with positive results.
"We've found great bass population, they're healthy. There are some big fish out here to be caught. We've seen tremendous reproduction today: catfish, crappie, blue gill, and bass. Lots of good fish," said Scott.
The data and research also help the DNR develop appropriate fishing regulations. So rest assured, the next time you throw your line in the water, the big one is somewhere out there.
The Division of Natural Resources operates several electro fishing boats across the state to keep an eye on the health of our fish.
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