THOMPSON CHAIN
OF LAKES
FISHERIES
MANAGEMENT
PLAN

STATE DOCUMENTS COLLECTION

JAN 2 5 2001

^'WSlM^eCSlTarK^

Adopted May 1997

MONTANA STATE UBRARY

1515 E. 6th AVE.
HELENA. MONTANA 59620

MONTANA STATE LIBRAR

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3 0864 0016 1448 9

490 N. Meridian Road
Kalispell, MT 59901
(406)752-5501
FAX (406) 257-0349
March 1, 2000
REF:JV038-00.doc

Dear Friends of the Thompson Chain of Lakes:

On May 30, 1997 the Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission adopted a fish management
plan for TCL. Due to an oversight on our part not many copies of the plan have been
distributed to the public. We're sending you the plan now so you know there's a plan
guiding our management actions, because the plan provides valuable background
information, and to give you an update on our progress over the last 2 V2 years.

When the Commission adopted the TCL fisheries management plan they commented on
the amount of interest and support shown by TCL users. We agree and we thank you.
We think we've made good progress on improving fishing in the TCL. We're always
open to your questions, suggestions, and comments.

1 . McGregor Lake

Fishing regulations were changed to make lake trout a separate 10 fish limit. The
rainbow trout limit was changed to 5 trout, only 1 over 22" in response to a
greatly improved rainbow fishery that appears to be a response to changing the
rainbow plant to a boat plant to scatter the fish across the lake with the help of
volunteer boaters. The Boisverts site was purchased in winter, 1999 by the Fish,
Wildlife & Parks Commission to keep the site open to the public.

2. Little McGregor Lake

Little McGregor was chemically rehabilitated in 1998 to remove illegally planted
bass and perch. The lake was replanted with rainbow and cutthroat with plans to
replant brook trout once an environmental analysis is done. FWP is working on
providing a better access.

3. Lower Thompson Lake

A kokanee stocking evaluation is ongoing and the kokanee limit has been lowered
to 10 salmon daily in an attempt to boost salmon numbers. A good winter salmon
fishery has developed. Illegally planted northern pike appear to be increasing so

the lake will be opened to pike spearing through the ice. The bass club placed
stumps for bass habitat enhancement.

4. Middle Thompson Lake

Changes the same as Lower Thompson. In addition, the kokanee stocking
evaluation didn't turn up any hatchery salmon in Middle Thompson so salmon
snagging was eliminated to protect the wild salmon spawners. The bass club
placed some stumps in Middle Thompson for habitat enhancement.

5. Upper Thompson Lake

Pike spearing through the ice was added in 1998. Good fishing for larger perch
has appeared in both Middle and Upper Thompson the last few years.

6. Rainbow Lake

Long-term public access remains as an issue.

7. Crystal and Lavon Lakes

The salmon fishing appears to be back on track after the planting program was
stabilized although the salmon are small this winter for some reason. We're
taking a look at rainbow stocking rates and at long-term access since Happy's Iim
is up for sale.

8. Bootjack Lake

Bootjack was chemically rehabbed in 1997 and replanted with rainbow and
westslope cutthroat. It is providing excellent fishing.

9. Topless Lake

Topless was rehabbed in 1998 and replanted with rainbow and westslope
cutthroat. Look for it to come on this summer.

10. Cibid Lake

Cibid was rehabbed in 1997 and replanted with westslope cutthroat and rainbows.

1 1 . Horseshoe Lake

The Environmental Assessment on introducing tiger muskies is about half done
but keeps getting stalled with higher priorities such as bull trout work.

12. Loon, Little Loon Lakes

Angling restrictions were added during bass spawning (May 15 - June 30, 1 bass
daily, 22" minimum) to keep these wild populations self-sustaining.

13. Banana Lake

This lake has been reinfested with rough fish, probably during a flood of the
Pleasant Valley Fisher River. We'll probably plan a rehab in the next few years
to restore the trout fishery.

Additional Work

A moratorium was placed on brook trout stocking because they potentially compete and
hybridize with bull trout. We'll try to complete an EA in the next year to reinitiate brook
trout stocking where it's not a problem.

A land trade was completed with Plum Creek Timber to secure additional shoreline on a
number of lakes. Facility developments have occurred or are planned at a number of
lakes (contact Parks Division). Regulations on motorboats have been placed on a number
of boats and a follow-up survey was conducted on support and compliance (contact
Enforcement Division).

Sincerely,

Mike Hensler L^ Jim Vashro

Fisheries Biologist Regional Fisheries Manager

(406)293-4161 (406)751-4550

/ss

THOMPSON CHAIN OF LAKES
FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PLAN

Prepared By:

Mike Hensler, Fishery Biologist

Jim Vashro, Regional Fishery Manager

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

490 North Meridian Road

Kalispell, Montana 59901

Adopted May 30, 1997

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Base

INTRODUCTION 1

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT PROCESS 1

SYSTEM WIDE MANAGEMENT GOALS 5

MANAGEMENT SPECIES ECOLOGY 5

Native Species 5

Westslope Cutthroat Trout 5

Mountain Whitefish 6

Arctic Grayling 6

Suckers 6

Peamouth 7

Northern Squawfish 7

Redside Shiners 7

Introduced Species 7

Arlee Rainbow Trout 7

Kamloops Rainbow Trout 8

Kokanee 8

Brown Trout 8

Lake Trout 9

Brook Trout 9

Largemouth Bass 9

SmaUmouth Bass 9

Pumpkinseeds 10

YeUow Perch 10

Northern Pike 10

Tiger Muskie 10

Bullheads 11

Walleye 11

CHEMICAL LAKE REHABILITATION 13

LAKE DESCRIPTION, MANAGEMENT STATUS, CONCERNS, AND PREFERRED

MANAGEMENT 13

McGregor Lake 14

Little McGregor Lake .19

Lower Thompson Lake 23

Middle Thompson Lake 28

u

upper TTiompson Lake 33

Rainbow Lake 37

Crystal and Lavon Lakes 40

Bootjack Lake 46

Topless Lake 48

Cibid Lake 50

Cad Lake 51

Horseshoe Lake 52

Leon Lake 56

Loon and Little Loon Lakes 59

Myron Lake 63

Banana Lake 64

Lost Lake 65

111

LIST OF TABLES

Page

Table 1. Matrix showing fish species constituency in the Thompson Chain-of-Lakes 12

Table 2. Historic planting of McGregor Lake, 1924-1994 17

Table 3. Historic planting of LitUe McGregor Lake, 1938-1994 22

Table 4. Historic planting of Lower Thompson Lake, 1930-1994 27

Table 5. Historic planting of Middle Thompson Lake, 1936-1994 30

Table 6. Summary of spawning run gill-net sets for kokanee in Middle Thompson Lake,

1968-1994 31

Table 7. Results from bass tournaments held on Middle Thompson Lake, 1989-1993 .... 32

Table 8. Historic planting of Upper Thompson Lake, 1936-1994 36

Table 9. Historic planting of Rainbow Lake, 1932-1994 39

Table 10. Historic planting of Crystal and Lavon Lakes, 1924-1994 42

Table 1 1 . Summary of kokanee gillnetting and hatchery stocking rates for Crystal Lake,

1975-1993 44

Table 12. Historic planting of Bootjack Lake, 1932-1994 47

Table 13. Historic planting of Topless Lake, 1969-1994 49

Table 14. Historic planting of Cibid Lake, 1973-1994 50

Table 15. Historic planting of Cad Lake, 1972-1994 52

Table 16. Historic planting of Horeshoe Lake, 1924-1994 55

Table 17. Historic planting of Leon Lake, 1932-1994 .58

Table 18. Historic planting of Loon and Little Loon lakes, 1931-1977 62

Table 19. Historic planting of Myron Lake, 1973-1994 . 64

iv

LEST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Map of major lakes included in the Thompson Chain-of-Lakes fisheries

managemrat plan 3

Figure 2. Contour and access map of McGregor Lake, Montana 15

Figure 3. Contour and access map of Little McGregor Lake, Montana 21

Figure 4. Contour map of Lower Thompson Lake, Montana 26

Figure 5. Contour and access map of Middle Thompson Lake, Montana 29

Figure 6. Contour map of Upper Thompson Lake, Montana 35

Figure 7. Contour and access map of Crystal and Lavon lakes, Montana 41

Figure 8. Contour and access map of Horseshoe Lake, Montana 54

Figure 9. Contour and access map of Leon Lake, Montana 57

Figure 10. Contour map of Loon Lake, Montana 60

Figure 11. Contour map of Little Loon Lake, Montana 61

INTRODUCTION

The Thompsai Chain-of-Lakes (TCL) management area consists of a series of 17 inter-connected
and/or adjacent bodies (Figure 1) of water capable of a producing an acceptable fishery in
northwest Montana about halfway between Kalispell and Libby. Each year thousands of visitors
utilize the lakes in many different ways, including fishing for warmwater, coolwater, and
coldwater species of fish. The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) has developed this
fisheries management plan to aid in attaining state, regional, and site-specific management goals
for the TCL.

This plan outlines fisheries managemoit directions for the TCL and was developed in cooperation
with a citizen/agency advisory committee. The committee included individuals fix)m a
homeowners group, several sportsmens groups, FWP, and the Kootenai National Forest. This
plan does not address other concerns such as direction in boating or fishing access, facilities
development or land acquisition. Those concerns will be addressed in other plans.

Although the lakes are considered to be parts of a larger unit, the diversity of fisheries and
seasonal use of individual lakes necessitates they be considered individually. Lake specific
management objectives and strategies can then be brought together to meet system- wide
management goals.

This plan states the system- wide fisheries management goals, addresses fisheries information in
each lake and reviews the historic and current fish population status of each lake (including past
fish management, current sport fishery and current lake regulations, if different from standard
r^ulations). In addition, lake-specific management concerns are presented along with strategies
to meet the system-wide and lake management goals. The plan incorporates extensive public
input. This plan is designed to guide fisheries management in the Thompson Chain-of-Lakes for
ten years at which time the plan would be reviewed and modified as necessary to meet changing
management goals. The plan may be modified at any time through adaptive management as new
fisheries data or changing public goals dictate.

PUBUC INVOLVEMENT PROCESS

The TCL Fisheries Management Plan was initiated in 1995 when background information was
assembled into sections on the history and management status of each lake. A TCL Fishery
Citizen Advisory Committee was formed and assisted in the identification of management concerns
and potential management options for each water. The Committee consisted of the following:

TCL Fishery Citizen Advisory Committee

Name

Representing

i

Kenneth E>Take

Libby Rass Busters

Rick GuIIingsrud

Libby Bass Busters

Herbert Johnson

Flathead WildUfe, Inc.

Roland "Red" Kline

TCL Homeowners Association

Robert Krepps

Libby Bass Busters

I oren Kujawa

TCL Homeowners Association

Glen Mueller

Unaffiliated

Doug Perkinson

Kootenai National Forest

Charlie Decker

FWP Commission

A draft fishery managemmt plan was written and mailed directed to more than 250 property
owners in the TCL area. In addition, the plan was advertised in the media and copies were
distributed from the Kalispell FWP Headquarters, FWP Libby Field Station, and at TCL open
houses. A total of 210 comments were received.

The following meetings were held to gather public input on the plan:

JMfeeting

Date

Location

...... M

TCL Homeowners

1/22/96

Happy's Inn

TCL Open House

3/18/96

Libby

TCL Open House

3/28/96

Kalispell

TCL Ooen House

_

m/9^

Harov's Inn

Public comments were reviewed by the Citizen Advisory Committee and a preferred management
option was formulated that reflected the majority of opinions for each water. In many cases, the
preferred opdon is a bloid of two or more of the potential management options. The updated plan
was presented to the public one last time in Spring, 1997. The TCL Fishery Management Plan
was formally adopted by the FWP Commission on May 30, 1997.

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In general the approved plan continues past and present management practices. Following are the
major changes that will be pursued under this plan:

Chemical Rehabilitation

Bootjack, Topless, and Lost lakes will be chemically rehabilitated as funding is available. Little
McGregor, Cibid, and Leon lakes will be considered for rehabilitation if changes in stocking
cannot overcome rough fish populations.

Habitat Enhancement

Artificial habitat enhancement for bass will be pursued on the three Thompson lakes and Loon and
Little Loon lakes.

Brook Trout

Stocking ratios in Little McGregor Lake will be shifted to favor brook trout over rainbow trout.
An environmoital analysis will be conducted to consider adding small numbers of brook trout to
some of the small closed-basin lakes now managed for rainbow trout.

WestslQpe Cutthroat Trout

MyrcMi Lake will be managed for westslope cutthroat trout. Small numbers of westslope cutthroat
trout will be added to some of the small lakes now managed solely for rainbow trout.

Large Trout

In the 2000-2001 fishing regulation setting process, FWP will propose regulations to produce an
opportunity to catch large trout in one of Bootjack, Cad, Cibid lakes, or one of the other small
lakes to replace the fishery lost in Notellum Lake.

Northern Pike

In the 1998-99 fishing regulation process, FWP will propose spearing for northern pike through
the ice in Upper Thompson Lake.

Largemouth Ba.ss

In the 1998-99 fishing r^ulation process, FWP will propose restrictive regulations for bass during
the spawning season in Loon and Little Loon lakes.

T,osrT;^ke

After chemical rehabilitation, Lost Lake will be managed for westslope cutthroat and grayling.

FWP will prqane an environmental analysis and gather public comment on a proposal to introduce
tiger muskie into Horseshoe Lake. FWP will propose a seasonal fishing closure on the western
one-third of the lake to protect a bald eagle nest.

SYSTEM- WTOE MANAGEMENT GOALS

McHitana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will manage the Thompson Chain-of-Lakes consistent with the
following goals:

L Maintain and promote self-sustaining populations of desired cold- cool- and/or warm water
fish species where possible.

2. Provide for a diverse recreational fishery for warm- and/or coldwater fish species
consistent with each individual lake's potential and historic use.

3. Provide some opportunity for recreational anglers to cj^ture larger trout ( > 1 8 inches) and
bass (> 16 inches) where consistent with an individual lake's potential; this may include
special regulations and/or lake rehabilitation.

4. Recognize the importance of native fishes in the system and manage for a wide diversity
of species. Establish a desirable balance between availability, abundance, and distribution
of westslope cutthroat trout and rainbow trout.

MANAGEMENT SPECIES ECOLOGY

The following is a synopsis of the species of fish that exist or are available for managemrat in
Thompson Chain-of-Lakes management area. In addition, Table 1 includes a matrix of the species
known to exist in individual TCL lakes.

Native Species

Westslope Cutthroat Trout

Westslope cutthroat trout are native to northwest Montana. The westslope cutthroat is popular
with many anglers because it is a native fish, colorfiil, and easy to catch. The hatchery broodstock

for westslope cutthroat in Montana come mostly from fish from the South Fork Flathead River
Drainage.

Cutthroat trout spawn in May and June in streams and rivers. The cutthroat is a very catchable
fish dq)aiding on the time of the year. During the heat of summer, cutthroat will move to cooler,
deeper water where they are not as easy to catch. Westslope cutthroat feed mostly on aquatic
insects. This trout averages a life span of five years and grows to lengths of 12 to 20 inches.

Mountain Whitefish

Mountain whitefish are a member of the trout and salmon femily and classified as gamefish. They
spawn in streams in late fall. They broadcast their eggs over fine gravels in riffles. They feed
primarily on insects and zooplankton.

Although whitefish fight well, they arc not highly esteemed by most anglers. Their bony nature
diminishes their value as table fare although smoked whitefish are highly regarded. Small
whitefish provide good prey for large trout and other predators.

Arrtir Grayling

The arctic grayling is native to Montana waters. Male grayling are distinguished by their large
sail-like dorsal and beautiful colors. The range of this fish has been greatly reduced due to
introductions of non-native species and habitat degradation.

The arctic grayling spawns from late March through early June, depending on water temperatures.
Grayling spawn over gravel substrate in smaller streams where they broadcast their eggs. The
grayling on average live less than six years but some may live as long as ten years. In Montana
the grayling can obtain sizes of 12-18 inches, but are most commonly much smaller. The largest
grayling caught in Montana weighed over three pounds. Arctic grayling feed primarily on aquatic
insects, and crustaceans, but feed very rarely on fish. Grayling are readily catchable on flies, bait,
and small spinners.

Siickfixs

Both coarsescale and finescale suckers occur in TCL. Finescale suckers have small, salmon-sized
scales and a more pointed nose. Suckers spawn in the spring and broadcast their eggs along
lakeshores or over sand and gravel in streams. Spawning males develop a dark red stripe along
their sides.

Suckers are intensely disliked by anglers because they compete with gamefish for food, and eat
gamefish ^gs and angla''s bait. Suckra^ are important to the ecosystem as nature's recyclers but
their high fecundity (egg count) makes it easy for them to overwhelm a lake. Suckers are eaten
by other fish but most gamefish do not prefer them as prey.

Ppflmniith

Peamouth are a native minnow. They ^)awn in May and June along lakeshores. They are prolific
and can reach nuisance densities. They eat zooplankton and insects.

Peamouth are regarded as a nuisance since they compete with gamefish for food and space and
will readily hit angler's bait, flies, and small lures. They are eaten by gamefish but are not a
preferred prey.

Northern Sgnawfish

Squawfish are the largest minnow in the state. The state record is 7 pounds, 14 ounces ftx)m the
Clark Fork River. Squawfish spawn in May and June along lakeshores.

Squawfish eat zoophnkton and insects and larger squawfish are predatory even though they have
no teeth. Anglers detest squawfish because they compete with and eat gamefish and readily hit
angler's bait and lures.

llMl<;iHp Shinprs

Redside shiners are the smallest minnow in TCL, growing to only 4''-5". They are prolific and
can quickly reach nuisance numbCTS. Although they are a preferred prey of many gamefish, they
can outcompete gamefish for food and will eat gamefish eggs.

Introduced Species

AHpp Rflinhnw Trrnif

The Ariee strain of rainbow trout originated in 1955 at the State Fish Hatchery in Arlee, Montana.
It is the result of a cross between the Donaldson rainbow strain and McCloud River (California)
rainbow/steelhead cross created in Missouri. This strain of rainbow has been limited to the
hatcheries for its broodstock. The Arlee strain is widely planted by FWP.

The Arlee rainbow ^wns in mid August through early January in the hatcheries, but most likely
does not spawn successfully in the wild. It has good disease resistance and fast growth; they
commonly grow up to 18 inches and 2 pounds with some more than 10 pounds. A 16-pound
Arlee rainbow was taken from Crystal Lake several years ago. Arlee rainbow trout are
characterized as genaalists, feeding primarily on zooplankton and insects. They have a short life
expectancy; most live two years in the wild but some may live four years or longer. In northwest
Montana most Arlee rainbows grow I'-S' per year and because of their life expectancy are
harvested at 12''-16" in length. They are easily catchable by anglers which contributes to dieir
short life expectancy.

Kamlnnps Rainhnw Trmit

Kamloops trout arc a strain of rainbow trout that originated in the north arm of Kootenay Lake
in British Columbia. The broodstock for this strain are from trout that spawned in the Duncan
River ftom Kootenay Lake. The kamloops has been planted by FWP in several western Montana
lakes.

The kamloops spawn from mid March through June, on average, but discharge and temperature
may shift the timing of the spawning. The kamloops is long-lived and is known for becoming
very large (over 20 pounds). It obtains the large sizes by feeding heavily on fish (primarily
kokanee) once it reaches a size of 12 inches. Because of the kamloops ability to reach large sizes
they highly sought after game fish, but its catch rate is very low (.02 fish per hour on average in
some lakes). Kamloops are not readily available at this time.

Knkflnpe

Kokanee salmon are the landlocked form of Pacific sockeye salmon. Kokanee are widely planted
in Montana and the Pacific Northwest. The broodstock for northwest Montana originated through
Flathead Lake fi'om Canada. Currently eggs are taken from wild kokanee in several northwest
Montana lakes.

Kokanee goi^ally spawn in the tributaries of their home lake but often times will use spring areas
in the late. Kokanee dig shallow owning nests or redds in small gravel. Salmon die after they
spawn. This salmon appears to have limited reproduction in Middle Thompson Lake and Crystal
Lake, but most likely will not reproduce successfully in other TCL lakes because they are closed
basins and have limited spring infiuence. Kokanee generally feed primarily on zooplankton and
on aquatic insects when they are abundant. The life expectancy of kokanee is fairly short, most
spawn and die in three years, some will live to five years. The average kokanee in northwest
Montana is 10"-12" although some kokanee in the Thompsons will exceed 20 inches. Kokanee
are catchable by a number of methods and are prized by anglers for fighting and eating qualities.

Brown Trout

Brown trout are widely established in the lower Clark Fork Drainage. They have been planted
in the Thompson Lakes and upper Thompson River but do not appear to have established self-
sustaining populations. Brown trout spawn in the fall in streams.

Brown trout eat insects when small but become very predacious when large. They can grow to
10-20 pounds. Most anglers find them difficult to catch.

8

T^ki. Tmiit

Lake trout, also known as mackinaw, are actually a char. They prefer to live in cold, deep lakes
and ^wn in 10-20 feet in water in late fall. ITiey broadcast their eggs over gravel and rubble.
Lake trout eat insects when young but become highly predacious after they reach 12"-14".

Lake trout readily hit angler's lures but their deq>-dwelling habits require some special techniques.
Lake trout commonly reach 2-5 pounds but can grow to more than 20 pounds. Small lake trout
are delicious but larger lake trout become very oily. Lake trout can over-reproduce and become
stunted.

Brook Trout

Brook trout are a char, a relative of lake trout. They spawn in the fall in lakeshore spring areas
or in small streams. Th^ can over-rq)roduce and become stunted. Brookies usually range from
8"-12" in length.

Brook trout eat insects, zooplankton and small ftsh. They are readily catchable and quite tasty.
They tend to outcompete many other gamefish.

Tjirgfrnoiith Ba,sis

Largemouth bass is not native to Montana but was introduced into the Flathead River system in
1898 by the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries.

Spawning occurs in late spring to early summer, once water temperatures reach about 60°
Fahrenheit (F). Largemouth bass spawn by fanning a shallow depression in sand or mud near
aquatic vegetation. Female bass produce about 5,000-7,000 eggs per pound of body weight.
Male bass taid the nests, fanning Ae ^gs and protecting the young and fry from predators. Bass
frequent shallow water with heavy cover such as weeds and logs. The largemouth 's diet includes
zooplankton, insects, and fish. They are somewhat easier to catch than smallmouth bass but
probably because they are in higher densities in TCL lakes. Northwest Montana is at the
northern-most range for bass so they are slow growing. They commonly reach 12"-16'' in 5-8
years, although some grow to 3-5 pounds and 15 years of age.

Smallmmifh lla«

Smallmouth bass are not native to Montana, but were introduced into the Clark Fork, Flathead
and Kootenai River drainages in western Montana. They were first introduced into Montana in
1910.

The smallmouth bass spawn in rock or graveled substrates along lakeshores from mid-April
through July. SmallnKxiths prefer cool waters and rocks and rubble for cover. Smallmouths are
more temperature dependent than largemouths and they become inactive at high water
temperatures and below 50° F. The smallmouth grows commonly to lengths of 7-16 inches and

2-3 pounds. They feed on zooplankton and insects as young, and as adults they feed primarily
on fish and crayfish. The smallmouth is generally a long-lived, slow growing species. They are
highly esteemed by anglers for their fighting ability.

Piimpkin!«i<>ds

Pumpkinseeds are commonly referred to as sunfish. They spawn in spring along lakeshores by
fanning out small saucer-shaped dq)ressions. They eat zooplankton, insects, and fish fry. They
generally do not grow larger than six inches.

Pumpkinseeds are tasty if large enough to fillet and are readily catchable by kids. Pumpkinseeds
readily hit bait and small lures but can reach nuisance densities and impact other gamefish. Their
saucer shape and spiny fins make them a poor prey species.

Yellow Pterch

Yellow perch spawn in spring along lakeshores in 2-10 feet of water. They broadcast strings of
eggs over vegetation. Perch eat zooplankton, insects, and small fish.

Perch are very tasty and highly sought after if they reach 8 "-12". Unfortunately perch tend to
stunt out. Perch are readily catchable and vay popular with young anglers. Perch tend to inhabit
all areas of lakes and are fierce competitors with other fish. Hieir spiny fins make them
undesirable prey.

Northern Pike

Northern pike were ill^ally introduced into this area in the 1950s and are now widespread. Pike
spawn in the spring by broadcasting adhesive ^gs over v^etation in shallow water. Pike quickly
become predators and chiefly eat fish. They prefer to live in heavy cover in shallow water where
they can ambush their prey.

Pike are fast-growing and comnKMily reach 5-10 pounds and can grow over 20 pounds. They are
highly prized by some anglers for the fighting and eating qualities, but hated by others because
of their predacious nature. Pike do eat some trout and salmon, but food habit studies have shown
that they eat primarily suckers, peamouth, and squawfish which inhabit heavy cover with pike.

Tiger Miiskie

The tigCT muskie is the result of the cross breeding of a female muskellunge and a male northern
pike. Tiger muskies are very adaptable to temperature and turbidity. The tiger muskie has been
planted in northeast Montana and grown to over 40 inches in length.

The tiger muskie is sterile and does not spawn. It is known for its good eating, fast growth,
moderate catch rates, and large trophy size. It is highly piscivorous and prefers soft-ray finned
fish, minnows, suckers, etc., over spiny-ray firmed fish like yellow perch and pumpkinseeds.

10

Riillhftads

Bullheads arc a member of the catfish family. They spawn in spring. They are easily catchable
and tasty if large enough (8"- 12") and if caught from cool, clean water. However, they easily
stimt out and readily outcompete many other gamefish. They make poor prey because of stiff
spines in their dorsal and pectoral fins.

Walleye are included hae because they are conmionly requested for gamefish introductions. FWP
contracted an independent assessment of walleye in 1989. That report showed that when walleye
are mixed with trout and salmon, the trout and salmon will be heavily impacted or eradicated.
Because of the intenxmnected nature of many waters such as TCL and the high incidence of illegal
transplants, it was obvious that if walleyes were planted West of the Divide they would aid up
harming many existing fisheries. Therefore, the FWP Commission banned the introduction of
walleye West of the Divide so they are not available for management in TCL. Despite the
seriousness of the problem, there have been five documented, but so far unsuccessful, illegal
transplants of walleyes West of the Divide since 1989.

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■3 y £ 5 —

« c 5 o — c
fi t- E (■ a I.

Ben c f

^ 1 >. • 3 w

o 5 ■ -M 0 c

^ I. -I a z o

n CO II -I n z

W -I -I -I X z

«

— 3 at)

3 Off u -•

a c 4-* 01 (A fl

I- 3 -^ fi o

^ Q -^ « a

u j< e X (- •

• 8 S 2 S .5

ea 1. a. u u u.

II CB ¥ I n N

12

CHEMICAL LAKE REHABILITATION

In some instances, a fishery may become overwhelmed by unwanted fish species such as shiners
or suckers that compete with gamefish for food and space or prey directly on eggs or small fry.
Even desirable fish such as perch and brook trout can over-reproduce in some instances and stunt
out at a small size. In some cases fish biologists may choose to remove all the fish from a lake
or pond and start over. This is known as a chemical rehabilitation or "rehab". Biologists use a
fish toxicant called rotenone which comes from a South American plant. Rotenone kills fish by
interfering with the transfer of oxygen from gills into the bloodstream. Rotenone is approved by
the Food and Drug Administration when applied by a licensed applicator. FWP will go through
a public involvement process and obtain a permit from the Department of Environmental Quality
prior to any rehab.

Fish killed with rotenone are technically fit for consumption but because the condition of the fish
is unknown and rotenone has a petroleum mixing agent that may give an off flavor, FWP
discourages salvage. Dead fish are collected when necessary for off-site disposal.

Rotenone is fairly ^Kcific to fish but may kill some gill-breathing organisms such as crayfish and
dragonfly nymphs. Those will usually quickly repopulate. Rotenone will not affect mammals or
birds. Rotenone can be detoxified if needed, but usually breaks down quickly into common
organic components when exposed to heat, air, and sunlight.

LAKE DESCRIPnON, MANAGEMENT STATUS, CONCERNS
AND PREFERRED MANAGEMENT

Following are water by water descriptions of the past fish management and stocking histories of
each TCL lake along with present management concerns. The alternative management strategies
are noted and the prefened management strategy as chosen by the TCL Fishery Citizen Advisory
Committee through public input is detailed.

13

MCGREGOR LAKE
f jikff IVsfriptimi;

McGregor Lake is a large, deep lake 35 miles west of Kalispell, Montana. The lake has small
inlets and cme small outlet (McGregor Credc) that connects it to the Clark Fork River through the
Thompson River. Its maximum depth is 220 feet and approximately 80 percent of the depth of
the lake is greater than 100 feet. McGregor Lake has a surface area of 1,328 acres (Figure 2).
A small impoundment structure regulates outflow from McGregor Lake. The impoundmoit
controls the upper three feet of lake elevation. The structure is a barrier to upstream migration.
Betweoi March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 6,975 anglers,
of which 82 percent were Montana residents, fished at McGregor Lake. This informati(Mi is
gathered by FWP through cred surveys and phone interviews on licensed anglers and is produced
in the Montana Statewide Angling Pressure Report.

Tjikp Mnnagpmpnf Stahw;

Management of McGregor Lake commenced in 1924 when 90,000 coho salmon were planted
(Table 2). Various species of fish including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and arctic grayling
were also stocked with poor results due to poor spawning success. Brook trout did manage to
establish a small, self-rq)roducing population from a single plant of 4,000 fish in 1947. These
hatchery plants were added to already existing populations of native westslope cutthroat trout,
mountain whitefish, longnose suckers, northern squawfish, and redside shiners. Yellow perch
were also established through illegal introductions sometime in the past.

In 1942, the initial stocking of lake trout occurred. Subsequent stocking of lake trout from 1948
through 1953 established a self-reproducing population. Beginning in 1965, FWP began stocking
kokanee salmon in McGregor Lake to produce a fishery similar to Flathead Lake and Whitefish
Lake. FWP also continued to stock rainbow trout to produce a "three-tiered" effect that included
a consumptive kokanee/rainbow fishery and trophy lake trout fishery. McGregor Lake produced
relatively good numbers and sizes of rainbow trout (14 inches to occasionally 10 pounds),
kokanee (11 to 20 inches), and lake trout (average 18 inches to occasionally 25 pounds).

In 1968, FWP introduced the opossum shrimp (My sis relicta). The desired effect was to create
a large kokanee (up to 5 pounds) similar to those being captured in Kootenay Lake, British
Columbia. The result was not as expected. In deq) lakes, Mysis tend to live near the lake bottom
during the daylight hours and rise to near the surface to feed at night. Two major outcomes
resulted from the Mysis introduction.

14

'0

■4

c

(0

1-1

o

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(0
Q)
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(0

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15

First, Mysis feed on the same small organisms (zooplankton) that kokanee prefer. Because
kokanee feed mainly near "thermocline" (generally 15 to 45 feet below the surface) during
daylight hours, the kokanee rarely got opportunities to feed on Mysis. Not only were the Mysis
not being eaten by the kokanee, they were competing successfully for the same zooplankton on
which kokanee fed.

The second outcome of Mysis introduction to McGregor Lake was related to lake trout. Prior to
Mysis intrcxlucticHis, lake trout existed at lower densities. Lake trout tend to live near the bottom
of the lake especially as fry and fingerlings. Young lake trout that were too small to begin feeding
on fish had to survive on the relatively small numbers of aquatic invertebrates and zooplankton
that existed near the bottom of the lake. In effect, there was a "bottleneck" that allowed only a
small number of young lake trout to survive to grow large enough to feed on fish (i.e. kokanee,
rainbow trout, redside shiners). When Mysis were introduced, the bottleneck no longer existed
for young lake trout. Many more young lake trout could survive on this new food source that
existed at the bottom of the lake during the daytime, they survived in much larger numbers to a
size that could eat kokanee, which they did.

The combined result of the Mysis introduction was that food supplies dwindled for kokanee; this
made them more susceptible to predation because they had to spend more time foraging. In
addition, the lake trout were in such high densities that a "predator trap" was created that greatly
reduced kokanee survival. Future stocking of kokanee was no longer feasible and in 1985, FWP
discontinued stocking kokanee in McGregor Lake. In addition, the lake trout became stunted as
numbers increased and kokanee disappeared.

Curraitly, FWP manages McGregor Lake as a lake trout/rainbow trout fishery. Most anglers now
fish for lake trout which are popular due to high catch rates (both in summer and winter). The
flesh of lake trout in McGregor Lake is "pink" due to Mysis in their diet. Lake trout less than
eight pounds taid to have this pink flesh and are excellent tasting. Fifty thousand rainbow trout
are stocked annually because there is no significant natural reproduction in the lake. Rainbow
trout provide a reasonable spring and winter fishery mostly along the shoreline, but their
abundance is limited by lake trout predation. Catches range from 8" to 18" and 3 to 5 pound trout
are sometimes caught. In addition, yellow perch provide a limited, self-sustaining fishery with
very few large fish.

Manflgftment Concerns:

1. FWP is not sure if rainbow trout can exist in McGregor Lake at levels greater than what
currently exist due to high predator (lake trout) densities.

2. The population of lake trout is comprised mostly of smaller fish.

16

Table 2. Historic planting of McGregor Lake, 1924-1994.

Number of Fish Planted

Year

Cobo Kainbow Orttfarott Arctio

S^noB TiCTrt Trout Gtaytiiig

Kakaaea Lala> Trout

Brodc
Trout

Weetslape
Cottltroat Trout

1924
1925
1926
1927
1929
1931
1933
1934
1935
1936
1937
1939
1940
1941
1942
1943
1944
1945
1946

194^

1948

1949

1950

1951

1952

I95I

1954

1955

1956

1957

1958

1959

90,000

260,000

60,000

264.000

30,000

240,000

796,000
700.000
206.200

100,000

90,000

35.000

ivWw>.v>J'A'v>>>Arlii<*K*K-kr>X"N->;->

12,000

48,000
56,284

300,330
165,120
163.000
164.000
157,000
304,798

55,000

21,000
25,360

100.000

210.000

17

Table 2. Continued.

Number of Fish Planted

YOM-

Crfw
SttfanoQ

Trout

CatdutMt
Troot

Arctk

Kokane© Ldt» Troot

Brock

WMtsk^
Oitaro«t Trout

1960

1965"

1966

19Ws

1968

1969

1970

1971

1972

1973

1974

1975

1976

1977

1978

197?

1980

1981

1982

1983

1984

1985

1986

1987

1988

1989

1990

1991

1992

1993

1994

42,000
,22,040
22.400
20,005

20,650
40,250
20,000

40,146

95,634

76,071«

71,823

75,839

71,382

47,700

51,797

53,786
65,708
50,000

m,456

33.070

67,340

^■^^^^;■^^^^^^^^^^MW■^x^w^^^^^^w

''*™"ii;«)o™"

293,000
273.4<» ,,
600,262

157,500

220,720
300,000
300,000
300,000

300,000
150j000_

""""mooo"-''

300,000
100,000

. Jf5,0M^^^^^^

"'™""mo^^^^^

100,000

■^T■^'>!•^^o^^x^^^^^'W?

^^^li^S

39,960
33,048
43.004
38,250
40,045
39,994
37,525

WIvi'Kvi'I'K'W'iwX'iwXv:

18

Preferred Management Optioni

Management options considered included current management for both rainbow and lake trout,
management for lake trout only, management for trophy lake trout, increased rainbow trout plants,
kokanee plants, yellow perch enhancement, or introducing lake trout prey. There were 84
comments on McGregor Lake.

Under the preferred management option, McGregor Lake would be managed as a lake
trout/rainbow trout fishery. Through monitoring and adaptive management, lake trout regulations
might be altered to promote larger fish. This might include slot limits and/or liberalization of take
of smaller lake trout. Rainbow trout would be stocked with emphasis on multiple planting sites
to decrease predation by lake trout. Interested anglers would be recruited to assist by making mid-
lake boat plants. Rainbow trout stocking would be monitored and might be modified if current
stocking prove to be fruitiess.

LUTLE MCGREGOR LAKE
Lake Description!

Litde McGregor Lake is a medium-sized lake north of McGr^or Lake that connects to McGregor
Lake through an intermittent unnamed creek. The maximum depth of Little McGregor Lake is
33 feet, mean depth is 13 feet and it has a surface area of 33 acres (Figure 3). Between March
1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 1,212 anglers, of which 100
percent were Montana residents, fished at Littie McGregor Lake (Montana Statewide Angling
Pressure Report).

Ijike Management Status!

Management of Littie McGregor Lake commenced in 1938 when 7,000 cutthroat trout were
planted. In 1961, the lake was poisoned to remove a well-established population of illegally
stocked black bullheads. With the exception of an unsuccessful bull trout plant in 1945, Littie
McGregor Lake was maintained as a brook trout fishery until 1985 (Table 3). In the mid-1980's,
the angling public expressed a desire for more angling opportunities in the region. Because brook
trout fishing can be slow during sununer months, FWP planted cutthroat trout in Littie McGregor
Lake to create a "two-tiered" fishery. The experiment met with good success and the two-tiered
management continued. Since 1988, the cutthroat trout have been replaced with rainbow trout to
better compete with the other species illegally transplanted into the lake.

Littie McGregor Lake was surveyed with gill nets in 1992. We found that sometime between
1983 and 1992, yellow perch and largemouth bass were illegally introduced into Littie McGregor
Lake. Yellow perch are now well established while largemouth bass are in low numbers in the
lake. Relative numbers of rainbow/cutthroat trout are still good (9. 1 per net) and their condition

19

is better than all of the other lakes in TCL. Relative numbers of brook trout are down from a
1983 inventory (6.0 per net and 1.0 per net for 1983 and 1992, respectively). This is probably
due to increased predation (on fry) and competition (with adults) with the introduced yellow
perch.

Although not covered in this fishery management plan, the need for legal access and the poor
condition of the road are frequently mentioned concerns.

Management Concerns;

Yellow perch introduced to lakes in northwest Montana have shown tendencies to produce stunted
populations after an initial boom of large perch. When this happens, naturally reproduced fry
(like brook trout) and planted fry (rainbow trout and cutthroat trout) are highly suscq)tible to
predation. In addition, the high densities of yellow perch that compete for food and space may
reduce both growth and survival of the game fish. Stocking becomes less successful and
hatcheries must produce a larger (and more expensive) trout to maintain survival,

Prftfprred Management Option;

Managemoit opticms considoied included current management and trout stocking, chemical rehab
and restock with trout, adjust trout stocking rates, manage for yellow perch, and add a predator
such as pike to control perch. There were 57 comments on Little McGregor Lake.

Under the preferred management option, Little McGregor Lake would be managed as a brook
trout/rainbow trout/ydlow perch fishoy. Through monitoring and ad^tive management, stocking
rates and sizes of rainbow trout and brook trout will be altered to produce a satisfactory fishery
and to shift emphasis back to brook trout. The lake would be rehabbed and returned to a trout
fishery if the yellow perch overwhelm the fishery.

20

Mt. Fish Wildiife & Par

1. i t 1 1

McGregor

T26N R25 W 54
CE ACRES 33

our interval 5ft
s cale

•100

Figure 3. Contour and access map of Little McGregor Lake, Montana.

21

Table 3. Historic planting of Little McGregor Lake, 1938-1994.

Number of Fish Planted

Yw

CuttJtotMit
Trout

TlODt

Brook Westelape Cutthroat Ariee

Trout Trout RairAow Trout

Trout

1938

IWi

1945

1962

1963

1964

196S

1966

1967

196a

1970

1971

1972

1974

1976

1977

1978

1981

1982

1983

1985

1986

1987

1988

1989

1990

1991

1992

1993

1994

7,000

SSSiSKSSiisSSiB^JSS

53,000

T-^fr ^A \\,y^^^^\wyjwA •, \V. f wj. ^^ yv

22Mi
6.480
6,510
6,400
4^800
3,000

„3,600
3,007
3,000
6,000

smm

3,113
3,003
3,068
3,000

.4^000.,

V..|™.:.

6,075
8,000
16.000
8,155
8,000

1,999

6*024

6.000

\-^yiji-yf^y-''i!''^yK<i^''>:^^

3,000

2.083
1^92

5,005

2,016

::i:2,044::::

2.184

2.000

iM

22

THOMPSON LAKES

The Thompson lakes are a series of three lakes connected by shallow water ways. Although the
channels that connect the lakes arc passable to fish, the lakes will be considered as separate
management units for the purposes of this document.

LOWER THOMPSON LAKE

Tjikpn<>sfriptinnt

Lower Thompscm Lake is a medium-sized lake that is the most downstream of the chain of TCL.
It is the source of the Thompson River which flows into the Clark Fork River. The channel that
connects Lower Thompsai Lake to Middle Thompson Lake is fairly wide and of sufficient depth
to pass fish. The lake has a maximum depth of 140 feet and a surface area of 240 acres (Figure
4). Between March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 2,538
anglCTS, of which 98 percent wctc Montana residents, fished at Lower Thompson Lake (Montana
Statewide Angling Pressure Report).

Tjikp Managpmftnf Status:

Management of Lower Thompson Lake commenced in 1930 when 150,000 cutthroat trout were
planted. Between 1930 and 1992, various stocking options were exercised and generally reflected
hatchery sources of fish and angler preferences (Table 4). Early inventories of the lake showed
native species assemblages that included westslope cutthroat trout, bull trout, mountain whitefish,
northern squawfish, largescale suckers, longnose suckers, and redside shiners (bull trout
apparently existed at very low levels and have not been found in recent inventories).

By 1953, unauthorized introductions established populations of largemouth bass (which currently
account for most of the fishing pressure in the lake), yellow perch, and pumpkinseeds in the lake
system. Northern pike were illegally introduced to Upper Thompson Lake prior to 1965 and are
self-sustaining and expanding their range. A few northern pike have been reported in Lower
Thompson Lake. The long-term status of this species is uncertain.

Between 1954 and 1959, FWP attempted a partial eradication program to reduce yellow perch
populations. Several yellow perch spawning and rearing areas in Lower Thompson Lake were
poisoned to create more space for cutthroat trout. In addition, FWP liberalized whitefish daily
and possession limits for the same reason. The program failed and was discontinued after 1959.

Lower Thompson Lake was also planted with kokanee in 1951 and 1952. These plants, along
with kokanee plants in Middle Thompson Lake and Upper Thompson Lake, were likely the
ancestors of the kokanee population that exists today in Middle Thompson Lake. In the mid-
1980s, soon after Flathead Lake, Whitefish Lake, and McGregor Lake kokanee populations

23

crashed, anglers expressed a desire to expand and enhance other kokanee populations. In 1986,
Lowo- Thompson Lake was added to the stocking schedule to receive 100,000 kokanee annually.
To date, there is no indication that a kokanee population has been established in Lower Thompson
Lake, nor does it appear that the kokanee planted each year survive in the lake in substantial
numbCTS. FWP is monitoring the plants to determine if the stocked kokanee support the Middle
Thompson Lake kokanee population.

Betweoi 1990 and 1994, FWP planted brown trout in Lower Thompson Lake in an attempt to add
a new trout to the fishery. Brown trout plants were established to create the opportunity to capture
a rare (rare in Region 1) and possible trophy trout. In addition, brown trout can be highly
piscivorous and Lower Thompson Lake contains high densities of potential prey (yellow perch,
northern squawfish, pumpkinseeds). Brown trout currently exist in the Thompson River and Clark
Fork River, so the addition of this species does not threaten the integrity of the downstream
peculations. To date, there is no indication that a brown trout population is established in Lower
Thompson Lake, and catches are rarely reported.

Currently most angling is directed toward largemouth bass and trout. Rainbow trout provide both
a summer and winter fishery. Trout catch rates are low but steady and some anglers specialize
in pursuing trojrfiy trout (greater than 10 pounds). Catch rates on yellow perch are high but only
a very small percentage of the perch are considered to be of keeping size (greater than eight
inches). Spearing was banned cm the lake in the 1970s to discourage poaching. Trout anglers are
restricted to 5 trout daily, only one trout longer than 22 inches. This regulation was established
in an attempt to protect the trophy trout fishery. Bass anglers are restricted to only 1 bass daily,
minimum length of 22 inches from May 15 to June 30, to protect spawning bass while still
providing the opportunity to harvest a trophy bass.

Managpment Concerns:

1. Yellow perch and pumpkinseed densities are high enough to make successful
rainbow/cutthroat trout stocking difficult. In addition, the yellow perch are stunting and
do not provide a desirable fishery.

2. Brown trout are popular in other areas of the state. Unauthorized plants firom an
established population in Lower Thompson Lake could lead to management problems with
native species in other regional waters, especially those with bull trout.

3. A suitable kokanee population has not been established in Lower Thompson Lake,
although stocking may contribute to the Middle Thompson Lake kokanee population.

4. Northern pike, which exist in large numbers in Upper Thompson Lake, have not been
found in appreciable numbers in Lower Thompson Lake. If northern pike become
established, successful stocking of trout would be more difficult.

24

5. Any exotic ^)ecies planted in the Thompson Lake complex can potentiaUy escape
to the Clark Fork River system.

Preferred Manaypnwnt Optioni

Management options considered included current management and stocking of kokanee, brown
trout, and rainbow trout, discontinue trout and salmon stocking and manage for warmwater
species, adjusting trout stocking rates, and investigating methods of perch control. There were
203 comments on the Thompson lakes fisheries.

Under the preferred managemoit options, the Thompson lakes would be managed as a two-tiered
fishery to include both warmwater and coldwater species (bass, and rainbow trout and kokanee,
respectively). The salmoiid fishery would be monitored to determine success of stocking. Brown
trout stocking would cease. Stocking of kokanee would continue in Lower Thompson Lake until
FWP can determine the contribution of wild versus stocked fish to the population, at which time
stocking rates might be adjusted, FWP would initiate a comprehensive largemouth bass genetic
survey to determine future stocking needs. FWP would initiate structure enhancement for
largemouth bass for Lower, Middle, and Upper Thompson lakes and monitor the effects of
structures on population trends. No structures would be placed so as to affect trolling for
kokanee. Regulation on the take of kokanee would be considered to enhance catch rates and
salmon doisities. Rainbow trout stocking would remain at curroit levels and retired rainbow trout
broodstock might be added to the lakes as they become available.

25

n3

c

(0

(0

J

c
o
en

I

■I

U-l

o

o

■p

§

u

•H

pl4

26

Table 4. Historic planting of Lower Thompson Lake, 1930-1994.

Number of Pish Planted

Ya«r

Cuttfaront
Trout

Rainbow Trout Brook Trout

•■•^^^•^^ ^ -^ -^ ■^.^■•■..^ ■■^■■^^^r^ —

Kokuiee
Sattnon

Westslc^
Cutdnoat Trout

Brown Tioot

3,000

121,800
125.000
120,960
120^124
120,006

1930 150,000
.1941 6.900

1943 8.800

1944 3,500

1946 4,200 6,680

.-.-1949, ...,..,....„.,...., , :,...,..:....,..- .,......-.,.J.000„

1951
1952
1954
:i955
1956
1957
1958
1^9
1976
;-^t977
1978

i9:h>

1980

1981

1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989

" -cSa ■> « -C- * >. -X «»«v>\*rf' < ■• ■*'W »fr ■>

64,000

90.135

v^M^X-JSaiK I'w ^■jic'**! ^4v4rf.MMjiJ5sMoSS-!ft».*'SfS^-4-~*c^-«»< *?SiW4 ■JS<iyiSs!SJK»l*«BS*"*Wi!8SISSSii:f «•

^

ia),320
20,124

13.137
19,910
26,014
23,004
20.065
19,993
18.014

37.158
15,021
...,_. 16.218
15,000
15.000
15,208

5v -

100.000

1990

20,018

100,000

2,712

, 199^

,V.VV-^^™,SV.V.V^

^-..A^-. w •.-. ■.

100,000 . .

;s:SSisssss:s?sss:::SHssss;^5r59

1992

20,586

2,513

1993

M.OOO

100,000

2,500

1 1994

20,000

50,000

2,500

27

MIDDLE THOMPSON LAKE
T^ke Descripfinn:

Middle Thompson Lake is a large, relatively deq) lake. It is the middle lake in the TCL. Middle
Thompson Lake receives water from Upper Thompson Lake and several small tributaries and
flows to the Thompson River and Clark Fork River through Lower Thompson Lake. The lake
has a maximum dq>th of 160 feet and has a sur&ce area of 602 acres (Figure 5). Between March
1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 5,379 anglers, of which 94
percait were Montana residents, fished at Middle Thompson Lake (Montana Statewide Angling
Pressure Report).

T.akP ManagPmpnf Sfflfiis;

Management of Middle Thompson Lake commenced in 1936 when 72,500 rainbow trout and
15,000 cutthroat trout were planted (Table 5). Between 1936 and 1992, various stocking options
v/erc attempted that gena:ally reflected stock availability and angler preferences with some notable
excq)tions. By 1953, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout 0>robably Yellowstone cutthroat trout), and
brook trout populations were established over renmant native westslope cutthroat and bull trout,
and over mountain whitefish, northern squawfish, largescale sucker, longnose sucker, and redside
shiner populations.

In addition, unauthorized plants have established largemouth bass, yellow perch, and
pumpkinseeds in the Thompson lakes chain. Northern pike were first found in 1965 in Upper
Thompson Lake, and exist at relatively low levels in Middle Thompson Lake. Lake trout are
periodically cs^tured in the lake and are most likely the result of unauthorized plants from nearby
McGr^or Lake and/or migratory movemoit from McGregor Lake through McGregor Creek and
the Thompson River. It appears that the native gamefish populations have been effectively
replaced by exotic species fix)m both authorized and unauthorized introductions.

Kokanee salmon were established in Middle Thompson Lake through a series of plants in Upper
Thompson, Middle Thompson, and Lower Thompson Lakes between 1951 and 1953, and again
in 1963. The kokanee introductions were successful in establishing a self-reproducing kokanee
population. Kokanee have not been planted in the lake since 1963, although it may be possible
that kokanee stocked in Lower Thompson Lake since 1986 may be supplementing the Middle
Thompson Lake population. The kokanee spawn in late October along the shoreline at depths of
5 to 40 feet.

FWP has monitored kokanee populations by gillnetting during spawning runs since 1968. In that
time, mature kokanee have ranged in size from mean lengths of 11 inches in 1968 to 18.3 inches
in 1988 (Table 6). Anglers have complained about decreasing catch rates for kokanee in recent
years.

28

LlJ

Q
Q

o

I

e

O

3 n i i *

I

(0

c

(0

J-l

c

i

0)
03

C

o

■H

s

14-4

o

CO

(0

0)

u
u

10

-a
c
to

c

5

•H

29

Table 5. Historic planting of Middle Thompson Lake, 1936-1994,

Number of Fish Planted

Year

Rainbow
Troat

CvtOaoat
Traat

Brook
Trout

Kokanee
Sabncm

Weetslope
Cutttiroidt Trottt

Brows Largfmoadi
Trott Bass

1936
1941
1942
1943
1944
1945
1946
1947
1948
!949
1951
1952
1954
1955
1956
1957
1958
1959
1963
1968
1969
1971
1972
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994

72,500

6jm

24.160

15,055
33,333
30,354
30.012
30,085
30,013
30,000
27,021
29,848
30,005

Jl»988
30,000
3^00

15,000
2^600

8.677

6,540
5,800
4,200

50,000
25.000
181,440
180.000
181,440
180,008
180,218
181,760

6,468
16,665

35,000

.3cy>06|:.:

2,500

29,000
4,000
8,000

119,000

74,375^

^\ \'%'««v:XJ^4^#^»i>h

; ■■-)«y!WoWAi^<ic^Ssc$»*K4w

103,408

39,560

16,320
17,839
16,000
14,991

2,712
2,559

s:2,513h>
2,500
2.500

32,600

30

Table 6. Summary of spawning run gill-net sets for kokanee in Middle Thompson Lake,

1968-1994.

Male Kokanee

Female Kokanee |

Yemr

Ifmdber

Mom

Range

Nimibw

Me«a

Range

M«M8M(I

LM«tii

Measured

Length

1968

97

11.4

40

11.0

8

18.2

1

21.5

1969

5

12.3

5

12.0

1970

108 13.1

.52

12.8 ^.^_^

1 197l'

64

13.8

11.5-17.$-^

^ 15

13.0

10.8-14.7

1972

37

13.1

9.0-13.9

IS

12.8

12.2-13.3

1973

....-:.->:.:::::,« .„™,„

..™.:.:.™.13.7

12.1-15,4.:.,,::,,,,,,

58

13.1 .,,,,,„„,,,,„

„ll.5-14.l ' '

1974

69

12.8

11.8-14.5

30

12.5

11.8-13.3

1975

100

12.8

11.9-13.9

96

12.4

11.5-13.2

1 1976

u ■■■■■*■

1977*

46

".•b V.A \ ^v^^^ vav\ \ va

13.6

12.4-14.8
13.0-15.8

49

13.2_

13.9

12.4-14.0
12.6-17.9

1978

86

13.7

9.8-15.8

66

13.2

11.6-14.3

1979

: ::::i:.::::..:.::»M::::...:,:.::

13,1

. 10.5>14>2:,,:::,:::,:fe

,,,,.,,,:..:.:,18:,...S

.12.4

11.8-13.2

1980

36

12.8

11.9-13.8

26

12.4

10.8-13.6

1981

,51

12.9

11.5-13.8

20

12.5

11.4-14.0

3

16.6

5

16.6

1982

82

14.2

10.4-19.0

45

13.6

12.5-17.9

1983

^^.,^.::^M:.,,^

13.7

lp.7-15.5 , :;::::::,,,:::■

■W!iiimWf^-:Mii

Mimmms^^Smimmm

: 11.5-15.0

1 '^^

72

13.0

11.7-15.3

65

12.6

11.6-14.5

1985

6

13.0

12.3-13.4

15

12.4

12.0-13.8

1986

.................J'*...,.,...™.....

.._......M.„„........... .......

12.9-15.2

IS

12.8

■,■.■.■.■.■.■.■.■.■.-.■.■.■.--■.■.■.•.■.■.■.■.-.■...■.■.-.•.•.■.■.■.■.•.■.■.■.-.-.■,■.

12.4-13.4

1987

....._^,.__^_.

■.-.■ .•.•.■.•.v.;:-.:'.::::-.:;:; ■.■.■.■.■.•.■.■.■.■.-.■.■.-.■.-.-.■.•.■.■.

NO DATA

1988

11

18.3

16.6-19.5

10

17.0

15.6-17.8

1989,

MMii^sM^iMMimMsiMx^flii^A^iiM

W^^^^^^iii^ii^^Miiii^S^iii,

::::::;:::,:.::i^O,DAXA™V,:

:v.:....:..:i:

1990

37

16.2

15.1-17.4

29

15.7

14.7-16.6

1991

NO DATA

NO DATA

1992

25

15.3

13.7-19.4

25

14.8

13.6-16.5

1993

_....- ........

17.1

15.4-18.4

25

16.4

15.6-18.4

1994

51

19.3

17.3-20.8

34

18.1

17.3-19.3

The rainbow trout fishery has been maintained by hatchery stocking over a remnant wild
pqnilation. Gillnetting and creel surveys indicate the average length of rainbow trout is about 14
inches with 10 pound or larger rainbows occasionally found. Brown trout have been planted in
Middle Thompson Lake from 1992 to present for the same reasons as Lower Thompson Lake.

31

Largemouth bass, introduced through unauthorized plants are well established in the Thompson
Lake chain. In recent years, the Thompson lakes have been popular for bass fishing tournaments.
The Northwest Montana Bassmaster Club has placed artificial habitat structures in Middle
Thompson Lake to enhance bass populations. Bass are able to avoid gill nets (due to their body
form and agility) so FWP uses catch per effort ftx)m bass tournament contestants to identify trends
in the bass population (Table 7).

Table 7. Results from bass tournaments held on Middle Thompson Lake, Montana 1989 - 1993.

Tourney
Date

Number of
Anglers

Bass
<=12
Inches

Bass

>12

Inches

Total
Fishing
Hours

Number

Caught per

Hour

Mean

Length

(in,)

06/17/89
06/30/91
07/19/92

53
36
34

222

59
161

147

901

576

0.065
0.66

14.1

In 1990, starch gel electrophoresis done on bass populations in northwest Montana indicated bass
populations v/ere not vay diverse genetically (they appeared to be nearly clones of one another).
Low goietic divQ^ty is a problem because it can lead to complications such as low fecundity (egg
production) and low survival. In 1991, FWP attempted to increase genetic diversity by hatchery
supplementation. FWP stocked 32,600 fingerling bass in Middle Thompson Lake in hopes that
whoi they mature, they will randomly breed with the wild population and introduce new genetics
into the population.

Currently most angling is directed toward kokanee and largemouth bass. Kokanee provide both
a summer and winter fishery. Trout catch rates are low but steady and some anglers specialize
in pursuing trophy trout (greater than 10 pounds). Catch rates on yellow perch are high but only
a very small percentage of the perch are considered to be of keeping size (greater than eight
inches). Spearing was banned on the lake in the 1970s to discourage poaching. Trout anglers are
restricted to 5 trout daily, only one trout longer than 22 inches. This regulation was established
in an attempt to protect tfie trophy trout fishery and to spread harvest among more anglers. Bass
anglers are restricted to only 1 bass daily, minimum length of 22 inches from May 15 to June 30,
to protect spawning bass and to spread harvest throughout the year.

Managpmpnt Concerns:

1. As with all TCL lakes, yellow perch, pumpkinseeds, and northern pike introductions can
make successful stocking of rainbow trout difficult.

32

2. The contribution of kokanee salmon planted in Lower Thompson Lake to the Middle
Thompson Lake population is unknown at this time. Kokanee catch rates are lower than
anglers would prefer.

3. FWP is not certain the current largemouth bass population can withstand the dramatically
increased angling pressure seen in the last decade. The population will probably persist
but possibly at much lower densities.

4. The effects of brown trout stocking on existing fish populations are currently unknown.
It is also unknown if stocked brown trout can survive in the current TCL system.

5. Because of the lake's topography, shallow water habitat and cover for bass is limited.

6. Any exotic q)ecies planted in the Thompson Lake complex can potentially escape
to the Clark Fork River system.

Preferred Managprnpnt Option:

Management options considered included current management and stocking levels, discontinue
stocking, increasing salmon densities, and artificial bass structure placement. There were 203
comments on the Thompson lakes fisheries.

Under the preferred management option, the Thompson lakes would be managed as a two-tiered
fishery to include both warm water and cold water species (bass, and rainbow trout and kokanee,
respectively). The salmcKiid fishery would be monitored to detarnine success of stocking. Brown
trout stocking would cease. Stocking of kokanee would continue in Lower Thompson Lake until
FWP can determine the contribution of wild versus stocked fish to the population at which time
stocking rates might be adjusted. FWP would initiate a comprehensive largemouth bass genetic
survey to determine future stocking needs. FWP would initiate structure enhancement for
largemouth bass for Lower, Middle, and Upper Thompson lakes and monitor the effects of
structures on population trends. No structures would be placed so as to affect trolling for
kokanee. Regulation on the take of kokanee would be considered to enhance catch rates and
salmon densities. Rainbow tix>ut stocking would remain at current levels and retired rainbow trout
broodstock might be added to the lakes as they become available.

UPPER THOMPSON LAKE
Tjikp IVsfriptinn;

Upper Thompson Lake is a medium-sized lake with connections to the Thompson River and Clark
Fork River through Middle and Lower Thompson lakes. It is comprised of a series of three
relatively shallow basins (90 percent of depth less than 10 feet) separated by narrow shallow

33

channels. It has a maximum depth of 100 feet and has a surface area of 232 acres (Figure 6).
Betweai March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 3,885 anglers,
of which 96 pocent were Montana residoits, fished at Upper Thompson Lake (Montana Statewide
Angling Pressure Report).

TjikP Managwtipnt Statiisi

Managemait of Upper Thompstm Lake conunenced in 1936 when 25,000 cutthroat trout (probably
Yellowstone cutthroats) were planted (Table 8). Stocking was sporadic and generally reflected
stock availability and angler prefCTcnces. Kokanee salmon that were stocked in the lake in 1944,
1952, 1953, and 1963 probably contributed to the current wild population that exists in Middle
Thompson Lake.

Yellow perch, pumpkinseeds, largemouth bass, and in the 1960s northern pike were illegally
introduced to Upper Thompson Lake and currently dominate the fishery. Illegally stocked
smallmouth bass were documented in the 1980s but appear to be in very low numbers. Upper
Thompson Lake was surveyed with gill nets in 1992. The non-game species pumpkinseeds
(6.4/net) and yellow perch (8.6/net) dominated the catch; northern pike (1.2/net) were of average
size and condition. Crayfish, are also in quite high densities (23.5/net) in Upper Thompson
Lake.

FWP ceased all stocking of trout and salmon in 1983 (with the exception of 1992 and 1994 when
approximately 4(X) broodstock rainbow trout were stocked) because of poor survival. The lake
is curraitly scheduled to receive 5(X) Duncan strain (kamloops) rainbow trout per year beginning
in 1995.

Currently most angling is directed toward northern pike and perch both in spring/summer and
winter ice fishery. Largemouth bass for many years were the mainstay of the fishery for Upper
Thompson Lake. Bass are still popular but their numbers have decreased as northern pike have
increased. In the past, stocked trout produced a fair trout fishery with occasional trophy trout
prior to northern pike introductions.

Catch rates on yellow perch are high but only a small percentage of the perch are considered to
be of keeping size (greater than eight inches). Spearing was banned on the lake in the 1970s to
discourage poaching. Trout anglers are restricted to 5 trout daily, only one trout longer than 22
inches. This regulation was established in an attempt to protect the trophy trout fishery. Bass
anglers are restricted to only 1 bass daily, minimum length of 22 inches from May 15 to June 30,
to protect spawning bass and spread harvest throughout the year.

34

o

§

u

vo

I

•H

35

Table 8. Historic planting of Upper Thompson Lake, 1936-1994.

Number of Fish Planted

Cuttiaoitf Brook Kakaaeo Rainbow Westslc^ Rambow Ttaat

Yeaf Trout Tffxtf Sahxm Trout Cutthroat Trout ggoodsfax^

1936 25,000

1941 1,200

1942
1943 ,
1944

:: 1946...., ,„,,,„„,,,,,,,,„„

1948
1951
1952

immmmmmmm
1963

1976

wm

1980

mm.

1982
1983
1992
1994

2,200

22,500

2,000

400

90,135

103,408

3,000

«-»»wvH«-»K

4,989

5,000
4,5|?5

5,018
3,998

ManagemfPt Concems:

1. Because of high predator densities (primarily northern pike), stocking of trout is very
difficult. Trout would be susceptible to northern pike predation at all but larger sizes
(>16 inches).

36

2. The geography of Upper Thompson Lake (three basins that flow through narrow, shallow
channels and 90 percent of the lake less than 10 feet deep) make any fish (especially trout)
vulnerable to northern pike predation.

3. Any exotic species planted in the Thompson Lake complex can potentially escape to the
Clark Fork River.

Preferred Manngpmpnt Option;

Management qjtions ccmsidoed included current management for pike/bass/perch, rainbow trout
stocking, catchable rainbow trout stocking, and artificial structure placement for bass. There were
203 comments on the Thompson lakes chain.

Under the preferred management option. Upper Thompson Lake would be managed as a two-
tiered fishery with primary emphasis on warmwater fish (pike, bass) while maintaining
opportunities for trout, as feasible. FWP would initiate a comprehensive largemouth bass genetic
survey to determine future stocking needs. FWP would initiate structure enhancement for
largemouth bass. Large rainbow trout might be added to the lake as they become available. FWP
will propose allowing spearing of northern pike through the ice on Upper Thompson Lake to
provide some additional control on this illegally introduced fish and to provide an additional
angling experience in the TCL.

RAINBOW LAKE
I<akft Pftscription:

Rainbow Lake is a small closed-basin lake north of Upper Thompson Lake and east of Crystal
Lake. The maximum depth of Rainbow Lake is unknown (probably less than 75 feet) and it has
a surface area of 20 acres. Between March 1, 1993 and February 29, 1994, FWP estimated that
as many as 395 anglers, of which 100 percent were Montana residents, fished at Rainbow Lake
(Montana Statewide Angling Pressure Report),

Tjike Mnnagempnf Sfntiisi

Management of Rainbow Lake commenced in 1932 when 37,000 rainbow trout were planted
(Table 9). Though several other species have been planted, management of Rainbow Lake has
been primarily for rainbow trout. Unauthorized plants of largemouth bass and pumpkinseeds
occurred at least by the 1940s, and illegal yellow perch introductions soon followed.

Gillnetting in 1992 indicated that rainbow trout planted in the previous year were relatively
abundant (5.0 pCT n^) and in good condition, although no holdover trout (greater than 12 inches)
were captured. Yellow perch are very abundant in Rainbow Lake (28 per net) and undoubtedly

37

affect rainbow populations adversely through competition and, to a lesser extent, predation.
Crayfish currently exist in the lake and may be the result of unauthorized plants. Largemouth bass
were not captured in the nets but were known to be quite abundant in the past.

Rainbow Lake is totally surrounded by Plum Creek Timberland property and that property is
scheduled to go on sale in 1997. Sale of the lake to a different owner may preclude management
for a public fishery.

Mnnagpinftnt CnnfftriK:

Yellow perch populations make successfiil stocking of rainbow trout very difficult.
Preferred Managenipnt Optinn;

Management opticms cmsidaed included cumrait stocking levels, chemical rehab, to increase bass
levels to ccmtrol yellow perch and to manage as a bass/perch fishery. Rainbow Lake received 48
comments.

Under the preferred managemoit option, Rainbow Lake would be managed as a two-tiered fishery
to include bass and trout. Stocking rates of trout would be adjusted through monitoring to
maximize catch rates. Experimental stocking of largemouth and smallmouth bass could
conunence. FWP would monitor the success of the program and make adjustments through the
ad£^tive management provision. Regulations for bass could include the spawning closure (May
15 through June 30; one bass daily and in possession, 22 inch minimum). All activities proposed
are provisional on acquiring a permanent access agreement with Plum Creek Timber Company
as the lake is entirely within Plum Creek lands.

38

Table 9. Historic planting of Rainbow Lake, 1932-1994.

Number of Fish Planted

Ye«

Hmhofw
Troi*

Arctic
<&<ytiiit

Coho
Sftbtion

J8i<i«t(>»<A

Brook

Cutthroat

■-i»f <ffsi. Trout

1932
1934
1936
1^3t

1939
1940
1942
1945
1944
1$45
1946
1948
1949
19S0
1951
1952
1953
1954
1957
1959
1965
1968
1971

wn

1973
1975
1977
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
'1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
19W

37,000
13,250

.\i. %!»v«ss«v»

620

3,000

2.800

435

3,320

10,000

40,000

10,000

788

6.000

15,200

2»759,

4,070
2,040
2,000
3,000
2,000
1,995
2,207
2,016
2,014
2.013
2,010
2.218
2,006
a,012'

2,036
2,012
2,023
1.719
1.814
2,000
2,014
2,000
2,000
2,000

120,000

21,000

25,000

24,000

1,640

2,640
3,000

39

CRYSTAL AND LA VON LAKES
T-akf npsfripfinnx;

Because they are connected through a passable channel, Crystal Lake and Lavon Lake will be
considered as a single management unit for the purposes of this document. Crystal Lake is a
medium sized lake connected to Lavon Lake through a 20 feet wide by 4 feet deep channel. The
lakes are a closed basin.

Crystal Lake has a maximum depth of 154 feet and has a surface area of 178 acres (Figure 7).
Lavon Lake is a small, relatively deq) lake. It has a maximum depth of 91 feet and has a surface
area of 17 acres. Between March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many
as 2,868 anglers, of which 84 pracoit were residaits, fished at Crystal and Lavon Lakes (Montana
Statewide Angling Pressure Report).

fjikfts ManflgPmonf Stahisi

Management of Crystal Lake and Lavon Lake commenced in 1924, when Crystal Lake was
stocked with 100,000 chinook salmon and Lavon Lake was stocked with bass and sunfish (Table
10). Angling success was marginal and several other species were tried including rainbow trout,
cutthroat trout, brook trout, coho salmon, and arctic grayling. The lakes already had strong
populations of largescale suckers. Coho salmon plants were relatively successful through the
1950s but sucker numbo^ continued to dominate gill net catches. The Libby Rod and Gun Club
offered to run traps in the spring to capture spawning suckers that traveled through the chaimel.

FWP decided to rehabilitate the lakes and in August of 1960 both lakes were treated with
Toxi^hene. Because of lake dq)th$, slow mixing and toxicity of Toxaphene, Lavon Lake would
not support fish until 1962 and Crystal Lake until 1964. In 1962, Lavon was planted with an
unknown number of kokanee salmon and when Crystal Lake was planted with kokanee and
rainbow trout in 1964, Lavon Lake was officially removed from the stocking list although it
continued to receive a portion of Crystal Lake plants. The lakes remained "clean" of unwanted
species until the early 1970s when unauthorized plants established yellow perch and pumpkinseed
populations in both lakes.

A self-reproducing population of kokanee salmon was established from plants between 1964 to
1967. Between 1967 and 1976, angling was excellent for large kokanee and FWP planted only
rainbow trout in Crystal Lake. In 1976, FWP initiated kokanee stocking for Crystal Lake to
oihance fishing opportunities. At the same time FWP began monitoring kokanee populations in
Crystal Lake (Table 11). Kokanee plants continued through the 1970s and early 1980s with voy
good success.

40

00

<0

■P

c

CO

c

I

T3
C
(0

(0

u

4-1

o

(0

u
to

'0

c

(0

o
-p
c
o
u

<D

41

Table 10, Historic planting of Crystal and Lavon lakes, 1924-1994.

Number of Fish Planted

Ye«r

Cbmnck
Saimoo

Basft

Sittfi«h

Ciitthro^
,.:.,. ...Trout.....,.:.,.:.:.

Troat

Brorfc
Troot

Coho
Sdmoft

An*ic
Gmylinjt

Kdcaaee
Sahww

1924

100,000

3,000

200

1

1925

35,000,:,

x|:i:i:-:|X:;:;::;:;>:;:<;>5J"

mmmmmmm

:;HS; 30,000

mmmmmmsi.

:::..|

1926

40,000

80,000

50,000

1

1927

„,17*44<l.

-. S ^ -.% % -kS^ AV.^^

.Ji2.G0O

1929

S^Ss^$sS»S*»SSvi«^Sx4SS«:*^

1932

90,000

1934
1935
1938
1940
1941
1942
1943
1944
1945
1946
1948

165,000

5,000

47,000

:■^»M«»K*■^>x■^■;

■'^''WXAcS^yvir^-i^s t^ ^^s^-s:jwsss^SR»v>-fls»«W^^

2^00

1,000

9,000

31,45$^

40,000
21,000
25,000
40,000

3,120
7,M0
5,702
4,195
13,280
750

1949
1950
1^1
1952
1953
1954
1955
1956
1958
1959

107,400

35,000

30,000

1.280

9,000

44,000
5,460

374,000
.187,0QQ.

31,310
27,160,

24,060
23,232
24,000

42

Table 10. Continued.

Nuni)er of Fish Planted

You

Chinook
S*fan»

Bast

Cutdiroet Raix^bow
Sugfiflh Trout Trout

Bnxdc Cobo Arctic Kdon^e

Tfoot Salmon Grayling Satoon

43

Table 11. Summary of kokanee gillnetting and hatchery stocking rates for Crystal Lake,
Montana, 1975-1993.

Mean Lmgths (Ranges)
of Spawning Adults

Hatchery Plants

and
Hatchery Origin

1 Y«r

Male Female

Kdcanee Salmon

Rainbow Troat

,.,..1975_,
1976

18.1 (17.2-19.8) _____}2:^ (15.8-18.4)
1?-I 17.6

4,995 (A)
5,033 (A)

90,000 (S)

1977

17.3 (12.4-20.1) 18.0 (14.9-21,6)

100,000 (S)

7,168 (A)

1978

16.5(15.2-19.5) 15.6(11.0-20.5)

50,000 (S)

7,000 (A)

1979

17.5 (13.9-18.5) 17.2 (16.6-18.1)

50,000 (S)

7,038 (A)

1980

19.2

50.000 (S)

7,029 (A) i

1981

not Bandied —

—

7,517 (A)

1982

notsanq^ted - —

50.000 (S)

7,708 (A)

1983

not8aiiq>led —

50,000(MS)

7,027 (A)

1984

not 8«a$>ted -—

49.982(MS)

7,072 (A)

1985

15.1 (12.0-16.5) 16.2 (12.3-18.5)

—

10,017 (A)

1986

14.4 (13.6-16.6) 14.0 (13.4-15.2)

50.000 (S)

10.014 (A)

1987

— —

50,000 (S)

8,739 (A)

1988

18.2 (17.7-20.5) 17.9 (16.9-19.0

—

8.007 (A)

1989

not sampled —

50,000(MS)

8,000 (A)

1990

9.6(8.8-11.2) 9.3(8.8-9.7)
14.2 (12.8-l?a>,,,,,,^,. .^144 Cl2,M74>.v^-

100.000(MS)

9,000 (A)

1991

9.0(8.2-9.8) 9.1(8.3-9.7)

100,000(MS)

8,000 (A)

1992

9.5 (8.7-10.4) 9.2 (8.7-10.3)

132,000 (S)

8,000 (A>

1993

10.7(9.8-11.4) 11.0(10.4-11.8)

50,000 (S)

8,000 (A)

1994

15.7(15.4-17.2) 14.4 (13.4-15 Jf)

50,000 (S)

8,000 (A)

A=Arlee Hatchery MS = Murray Springs Hatchery S = Soiner8 Hatchery

In the mid to late 1980s, Crystal Lake was stocked annually with about 50,000 kokanee (Table
10). In 1988, kokanee eggs were scarce and Crystal Lake was not stocked. To make up for the
loss, 100,000 to 132,000 kokanee were planted between 1990 and 1992 and unfortunately kokanee
lengths dropped from 16 to 20 inches in 1988 to 9 to 14 inches in 1990. Two possible impacts
could have occurred. First, kokanee are known to exhibit inverse density dependent growth (as
numbers of kokanee increase, their size decreases to compensate for less space and food).

44

It is possible that by doubling the stocking level, Crystal Lake kokanee reacted by slowing their
growth. Second, it is possible that the source of eggs from one or more of those years were from
a genetic stock that is slower growing and spawns at a younger age (normally kokanee spawn as
three-year-olds in Crystal Take, during the time of smaller kokanee, most were spawning as two-
year-olds). In 1993, FWP returned the kokanee plant in Crystal Lake to 50,000 per year (historic
levels). Lengths of kokanee have since increased from means of 9.2 to 9.5 inches to 10.7 to 1 1.O
inches. In 1994, kokanee were back near historic lengths.

Currently, anglers fish Crystal Lake and Lavon Lake primarily for kokanee, rainbow trout, and
perch. Kokanee are showing signs of increasing lengths and rainbow trout have a good average
size and produce good to average catch rates with an occasional large (greater than frve pounds)
trout caught. There are some bass in the lake and fishing pressure is pretty light. Yellow perch
produce both a spring/summer and winter ice fishery for fair numbers and good sizes (8 to 12
inches).

Manflgpfiiftnt rnnci>rns:

1. Yellow perch populations are currently at densities high enough to make successful
stocking of kokanee difficult. In addition, the signifrcance of competition for food
between kokanee and yellow perch is unknown.

2. Kokanee sizes were 4 to 7 inches below historic lengths, although lengths are increasing,
stocking rates appear to impact kokanee growth.

3. There apparently is some natural reproduction by kokanee in Crystal Lake. The level is
currently unknown, making stocking level estimates difficult.

4. Lavon Lake is known to at least partially winterkill. Nutrients from septic systems may
artificially enrich the lakes and aggravate this problem.

Prefem^ Managpmpnt Option!

Managemait q}tions presented included current stocking levels, adjustment of hatchery kokanee
plants, and introduction of kamloops (Duncan) rainbow. The lakes received 60 comments.

Under the preferred management option, Crystal/Lavon lakes would be management primarily as
a kokanee salmon fishery. Through monitoring, FWP would identify wild versus hatchery
contribution to the population and through adaptive management would adjust stocking rates
accordingly. Arlee rainbow trout stocking would continue at current levels and FWP would
monitor rainbow trout and adjust stocking densities through the adaptive management provision.

45

BOOTJACK LAKE
f jiko rW>srrip»inn;

Bootjack Lake is a small closed-basin lake near Happy's Inn. Its maximum depth is approximately
41 feet and it has a surface area of ai^m>ximately 12 acres. Between March 1, 1993 and February
28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 426 anglers of which 60 percent were Montana
residents, fished at Bootjack Lake (Montana Statewide Angling Pressure Report).

fjikp Manflgpmpnt Stflfiisi

Managem^t of Boo^ack Lake commenced in 1932 when 8,000 rainbow firy were planted (Table
12). Between 1932 and 1992, various species including coho salmon, arctic grayling, and
cutthroat trout have been planted in the laJce. Unauthorized plants of bass and pumpkinseeds
during the 1950s and 1960s made management difficult. In the past, high concentrations of
amphipods (freshwater shrimp) produced large trout (up to 20 inches). Bootjack lake is known
to winterkill during years of long ice duration and heavy snow cover. It appears that winterkills
were substantial and included all species.

Gill-net sets from 1992 indicated good numbers (5 per net set) and relatively good growth for
rainbow trout in Bootjack Lake (approximately 3.5 to 4.0 inches in the first two years). The
largest trout woe 3 years old, 15 inches in length and nearly 1 pound. Pumpkinseeds were also
found in the gill nets. Pumpkinseeds have existed for several years in the lake at fairly low
concentrations. Pumpkinseeds could become a problem due to their high reproductive potential
and ability to stunt (FWP has found that trout planting success decreases dramatically as panfish
populations increase).

Crayfish were found in the gill nets in fairly high concentrations (17 per net set). Crayfish are
relatively new to the lake and may be the result of unauthorized plants. The significance of
crayfish to the managem«it of the lake is currently unknown, although rainbow trout are known
to feed on crayfish in other systems. A possible result of crayfish and pumpkinseed introductions
is the £q>parent lack of amphipods in the lake. In the past, densities of amphipod were described
as "dripping off the gill nets" and in "buckets". In 1992, no amphipods were observed in the
water or in fish stomachs. The lake is currently known for providing moderate to good fishing
for small to medium sized trout.

Management Concerns:

Increased nongame fish populations (pumpkinseeds) may make successful stocking of rainbow
trout difficult.

46

Table 12. Historic planting of Bootjack Lake, 1932-1994.

Ye«r RambowTroBt Arctic Oayling

Number of Fish Planted

IIIIUIHHj^lJ)Jlj,l^l[l 11 J j, i ll<,j, . 'Ji; x^U

Coho Salmon

CutthrcM* Troat

1932

1939
1954

8,000

74,000

1,000

■H!-'-''<i8S8f*K^Ai'- i-^ ^ S»?^Sfe\ «i ■¥*«?«.;!• ^N«K^«»*<1

'^""■■a^.^ ■^ ■■ it^^'^fx^--''

■^ ■«'^X* C^N-C^ "JC" ^%"rt \ -i V.V, d^-.Va\-ASVa\ -.W-N \VW>irXv%N%i S NV.S rt .V^lft VMV^SS". V.*iV Vl^V \ ^ .vw

1956
1958

1?$?

1961

1964

1965
1966
1969
1972
1973
1976
1978
1979
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1987
1988

im

1992
1994

5,060
2.500
3,000
24^200
2,160
2,000

2,146
i.5>?9
4,115
4,000

>>1rt^^•.^^^y^^:^»K^^•«^■««;^:ftw*¥A^^

_411.
5,045
4,060
2,000
2,003

1,995

2,508
2,520

iiSS

:::::>»H«w}»js«*K::^>x<::-

2,520
2,513
2,502
4,038

3,003

V fsWSW/M*S-: AtX-. f(^Mi::-f:i>yMli^.f:iif<ttsti:^iix-:^fSiifXSSit.

/:«SS«S4SSS¥SSfti!SS^

■::M^

3,024

iiliiiliiialSiiiiii

i5.%\ . *v ^ « ■«.X(«V>vm'"'»*X«».

aiiHiiiiiiiijiiK

AtJSfOwv^

47

Preferred Managftinfint Optioni

Management options considered included maintaining current stocking rates and management,
chemical rehab, and converting the lake to a trophy or large lake trout management lake through
regulations. Bootjack received 50 comments.

Under the preferred management option. Bootjack Lake would be rehabilitated as funding
becomes available and rainbow and/or cutthroat or brook trout would be reintroduced at historic
levels. Through monitoring and adaptive management, the opportunity to manage the lake as
trophy lake would be assessed after the rehabilitation.

TOPLESS LAKE
Lake Description!

Topless Lake is a small closed-basin lake east of Horseshoe Lake and south of Bootjack Lake.
It has a maximum depth of 24 feet and has a surface area of approximately 9 acres. Between
March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated tfiat as many as 121 anglers of which 100
percent were Montana residents, fished at Topless Lake (Montana Statewide Angling Pressure
Report).

Tjike Management Status;

Management of Topless Lake commaiced in 1969 when initial gill-net surveys produced no fish.
FWP decided Topless Lake represented an opportunity to support a limited number of anglers and
planted 10,545 cutthroat trout (Table 13). Since that time, FWP has managed the lake to receive
2,0(X) to 3,000 trout (species depended on availability) on a two-year rotating basis to maximize
growth rates.

Between 1969 and 1983, illegal introductions established populations of black bullheads and
pumpkinseeds in Topless Lake. Crayfish, which were not common to TCL have also been found
in relatively high numbers and are likely the result of unauthorized stocking. Gillnetting in 1992
produced only one rainbow trout and high numbers of pumpkinseeds (17.5 per net) and black
bullheads (5.0 per net).

Managfment Concerns:

1. High numbers of pumpkinseeds and black bullheads make successfiil stocking of rainbow
or cutthroat trout difficult due to competition and predation.

2. Topless Lake is known to winter kill occasionally.

48

3. Because of proximity of small and large lakes, FWP cannot oisure that undesirable species
won't be replanted in Topless Lake if it is chemically rehabilitated.

Preferred MaimyMnPnt Optinn;

Management options considoed included maintaining the current stocking rates and management,
chemical rehab, or converting to a warm water fishery (bass, pike) to provide a different fishery
and for biological control of pumpkinseeds and bullheads. Topless Lake received 48 comments.

Under the preferred management option, Tc^less Lake would be rehabilitated as funding becomes
available (preferably at the same time as Bootjack Lake) and rainbow and either cutthroat trout
or brook trout would be reintroduced at historic levels. Through monitoring and ads^tive
management, the fishery would be assessed and adjusted as necessary.

Table 13. Historic planting of Topless Lake, 1969-1994.

nz

ttaat

Number of Fish Planted

Year

Ardk

Weetalope
Cutthroat Troirt

Rdxdbow
Trout

KamloopB
RaiiAxjw Trout

1969

1970

1972

1971:

1976

1978

1979

m

1981*

1983

1985

1987

W&r
1990
1992
1994

10,545

i'spo'"

*^?-^?;^¥^S????®?:?ss5^^

6,000

:2,0M::

4,989
4,700
4,970
2,02A

2,554
2,036
2,023

2,030
7-000

2,001

49

CraiDLAKE

I<ake T>f!Sf ription:

Cibid Lake is a small closed-basin lake located southwest of Horseshoe Lake. It has a maximum
depth of 60 feet and a surface area of 1 1 acres. Between March 1 , 1993 and February 28, 1994,
FWP estimated that as many as 81 anglers of which 100 percent were Montana residents, fished
at Cibid Lake (Montana Statewide Angling Pressure Report).

T<akft Status;

Management of Cibid Lake commenced in 1973 when initial gill-net surveys indicated that
pumpkinseeds and largemouth bass had been illegally introduced to the lake. FWP initiated
planting of Cibid Lake with rainbow trout in 1973 on a two-year rotating basis to maximize
growth rates (Table 14). There is no natural rqnxxluction of trout in Cibid Lake so the population
is supported wholly by stocking. A 1992 gill-net survey produced rainbow from 12 to 14 inches
(1.7 per net) that were in good condition relative to adjacent lakes. In addition, pumpkinseeds
were captured at relatively high numbers (6.0 per net). Although no bass were captured, they
probably exist at a low density.

Table 14. Historic fish stocking of Cibid Lake 1973-1994.

- Year

^lecies Stodced Number Plaated

1973

rainbow trout 3,000

miiSl^mmm

MinlKW.hputisiMsHfflaaisss^

1977

rainbow trout 1,000 |

1«»1

«i««»K::»Si^aii^g^^^^^^iii^Cfc. ■;: 1

1983

rainbow trout 3,429

^■^-W-siSS^ffiKwS^x

■*miixmmti^^^^^i lililiiyjaiiii;

1987

rninbow trout 2,041

1989

runbotytvoitf 1,814

1991

rainbow trout . 2,014

1993

rstobow fcrout 2>000

Mnnngp

ment Concerns:

1, Pumpkinseeds and largemouth bass make successful stocking of rainbow and cutthroat
trout difficult.

50

2. Because of proximity of small and large lakes, FWP cannot ensure that undesirable species
won't be replanted in Cibid Lake if it is rehabilitated.

Preferred Manaypmpnt Option;

Management actions considocd included maintaining current stocking and management, chemical
rdiab and restock with trout, or chemical rehab, stock with trout, and manage as a trophy lake.
Cibid Lake received 48 comments.

Under the preferred management option, the current rainbow stocking would continue on Cibid
Lake with the additi(m of dther cutthroat or brook trout. Rehabilitation should remain an option
for the future. Fishing regulations to produce larger trout will be considered.

CAD LAKE

Tjike IVsfriptinn;

Cad Lake is a small closed-basin lake west of Crystal Lake. It has a maximum depth of 31 feet
and a surface area of i^jproximately 4 acres. FWP did not estimate fishing pressure for Cad Lake
in 1992 although angler accounts suggest that Cad Lake supports more than 50 anglers per year.

Tjikp Managpmpnf Sfatiis;

Management of Cad Lake commenced in 1972 when approximately 4,000 cutthroat trout were
planted (Table 15). There is no natural reproduction of trout in Cad Lake so the population was
supported wholly by hatchery supplementation. Prior to 1972, unauthorized introductions
established populations of yellow perch and pumpkinseeds.

In 1975, FWP chemically rehabilitated Cad Lake with rotenone, and in 1976 cutthroat trout were
planted in the lake. Cad Lake is currently managed as a small lake flshery planted on a two-year
rotating basis to maximize growth. Stocking has rotated between rainbow and westslope cutthroat
trout. Stocking was switcl^d to rainbow trout in 1990 because westslope cutthroat were in short
supply at the time and rainbow trout produce a slightly larger trout.

Gillnetting in 1992 indicated that Cad Lake still has only trout in it. The population appears to
be strong (12 per net) and healthy with larger trout approaching 18 inches. Cad Lake currently
is the only small lake in the TCL that was rehabilitated and still shows no indications of having
any unauthorized plants (Banana Lake was rehabilitated in 1992).

51

Table 15. Historic fish planting in Cad Lake 1972-1994.

Yew

SpecteB Stocked

Number Pl*nted

1976 """ " " '

cutthroat trout

cotthtoat ttoiit

1978

cutthroat trout

19W

cttttln^^e^ Jl<>B(l

1982

rainbow trout

1983

raiidww trout

1984
1987

rainbow trout
rati^w trout

1989

cutthroat trout

1990-

nitdMWtrqitf

1992

rainbow trout

1994

rairfww trout

4.140

3,010

2,000
1.501
1.S12
1,005
1,006
1,027
990
1,004
1,532
1,500

V*-0OvC-' ^V-*

■v V^W^ 0^->.«vK

Managpmpnt Concerns:

1. As with all the lakes in the TCL, unauthorized introductions are a concern.

Preferred Manaf«>in«>nt Option:

Managemait options considered included maintaining current management and stocking, consider
managemait for a trc^hy trout, or switch to westslope cutthroat management. Cad Lake received
48 comments.

Under the preferred management option, current management for rainbow trout would be
continued with the possible addition of cutthroat or brook trout. Fishing regulations to produce
larger trout will be considered.

HORSESHOE LAKE

fjike rw>srriptinn;

Horseshoe Lake is a large closed-basin lake located southwest of Loon Lake and Leon Lake.
Horseshoe Lake has a maximum depth of 133 feet, mean depth of 45 feet, a surface area of 160
acres (Figure 8). Between March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many
as 157 anglers of which 100 percent were Montana residents, fished at Horseshoe Lake (Montana
Statewide Angling Pressure Report),

52

Tjikp Manaypnwnt Stutiis?

Management of Horseshoe Lake commenced in 1924 when 20,000 rainbow trout were planted
(Table 16). Between 1924 and 1981, planting of the lake was sporadic and generally represented
stock availability and angler preferences. Plants included coho and kokanee salmon, rainbow
trout, cutthroat trout, and brook trout. Because of high rough fish populations (mainly northern
squawfish and largescale suckers) planting success was marginal. In 1945 and 1950, FWP
attempted to introduce bull trout and lake trout respectively, in an attempt to biologically lower
rough fish populations. The experiment met with no success.

Gillnetting showed species composition in Horseshoe Lake in 1966 was northern squawfish (17
per net), largescale suckers (9.0 per net), longnose suckers (1 per net), and pumpkinseeds (1 per
net); redside shiners were noted in large numbers along the shoreline. These numbers were
similar to 1968 and 1973 gill-net surveys. There were no trout captured. In 1956, FWP
determined that Horseshoe Lake should be rehabilitated. This was locally popular but problems
with access to the lake and funding led to no action taken.

Horseshoe Lake was surveyed again in 1992 with gill nets. Rough fish populations were similar
to historic levels. Duncan strain rainbow trout (kamloops) from a 1990 plant were captured at low
numbCTS (0.6 per net). These trout had the lowest condition of any trout in the TCL. The trout
did provide some angling opportunity, though.

Managfment Concerns:

1 . Curroit angle- use of Horseshoe Lake is almost non-existent; the lake is under-utilized by
anglers.

2. Continued high rough fish populations (especially northern squawfish) make successful
introductions of rainbow or cutthroat trout difficult to impossible.

3. Complete rehabilitation of Horseshoe Lake would require approximately 2,700 gallons of
rotenone. The cost per gallon of rotenone (1994) is $30. Including labor the cost to
rehabilitate Horseshoe Lake would be approximately $85, (XX).

4. There is a historic bald eagle nest on Horseshoe Lake.

53

C

J
1)

o

£1
W

CO

i-i
o

^-1
0

u
u
10

c
to

0

c
o
u

00

54

Preferred Management Option!

Management options considered included current management with no stocking, chemical
rehabilitation, stocking of kamloops rainbows, and stocking of tiger muskies. Horseshoe Lake
received 57 comments.

Under the preferred management cation, an environmental assessment on the introduction of tiger
muskie would be prepared for public comment. If approved, tiger muskie would be introduced
to Horseshoe Lake to provide a biological control for the rough fish population and provide a
trc^hy fishery. The restriction on take of tiger muskies would be the state regulation (1 fish, 30
inch minimum). If tiger muskie reduce the rough fish, rainbow trout will be introduced to the
system and through monitoring and adaptive management, stocking rates will be adjusted
accordingly.

Table 16. Historic planting of Horseshoe Lake, 1924-1994.

Year SpeotOB Stocked Numbw Planted

1924 rainbow trout 20,000

1932 oofaosabnon 3,675

1933 rainbow trout 36,000

coho safanon 28,800

1935 . cobo sahnoa ^^^^^^^^..^^^^^^.^^^^.^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^..^^^.^^.„ 2^

1940 kokanee salmon 45,000

1941 kokane© salmon 41,000

kkB trout 29,000

1945 buU trout 4,900

1952 brook trout 1,275

1954

cutthroat trout

15,180 ,

1055

cutthroat trout
cuttfannt trout

17,420

mmmmrnrnmimmmmmfm^
22,000^ ;ii

1 1957

cutthroat trout

15.840

I . 1958 . ,

cutthroat trout -

15,360

1 1959

cutthroat trout

16.800

1981

raii^Kkw trmtf

21,945

1990

kamloops rainbow trout

3,136

55

LEON LAKE

T<flkft Pftscriptiftn:

Leon Lake is a small closed-basin waterbody between Loon Lake and Horseshoe Lake. Its
maximum dq>th is 87 feet and a surface area of 22 acres (Figure 9). Between March 1 , 1993 and
February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 349 anglers of which 100 percent were
Montana residents, fished at Leon Lake (Montana Statewide Angling Pressure Report).

Tjikp ManagpiTipnt Stafiis;

Management of Leon Lake commenced in 1932 when 5,000 rainbow trout were planted (Table
17). Between 1932 and 1969, the lake had received periodic plants of rainbow, brook, and
cutthroat trout, and coho and kokanee salmon. The lake already had a population of northern
squawfish, and by 1968 unauthorized plants helped to establish pumpkinseeds and largemouth
bass.

In 1969, FWP determined that the lake was not providing an acceptable fishery and rehabilitated
the lake with rotenone. The lake was subsequently restocked with westslope cutthroat trout.

Since the initial plant of cutthroat trout in 1970, management emphasis has shifted to rainbow
trout. Currently, the Department plants 2,500 Arlee rainbow trout every other year (beginning
1992).

Leon Lake was surveyed with gill nets in 1994. Only yellow perch (57 per net) and crayfish (3
per net) were captured. Although no rainbow trout were captured, there is evidence that the lake
supports a limited summer and winter trout fishery.

Management Concernsi

High rough fish numbers make successful stocking of trout species difficult.
Preferred Management Option:

Management options considered included current management with stocking of Arlee rainbow
trout every other year, switching to an annual trout plant, switching to westslope cutthroat trout,
chemically rehab the lake and restock Avith trout, and eliminate trout stocking and switch
management to perch and bass. Leon Lake received 49 comments.

Under the preferred management option, Leon Lake will be managed for rainbow/cutthroat trout
at this time. The stocking rates will be changed to include Arlee rainbow trout and westslope
cutthroat trout on alternating years. Through monitoring and ad^tive management, stocking rates
will be adjusted to maximize catch rates. Rehabilitation should remain an option for the future.

56

<
o

«B

z
m

z
o
z

(0

c

(0
iJ

c

s

I

c
o

o

CO

s

u

■a

c

(0

o
-p
c
o
u

57

Table 17. Historic planting of Leon Lake, 1932-1994.

Number of Fish Planted

Year

Raidbow
Tmut

Cobo
Sabofoa

Brook

TtDUt

Kotutnee
Safanoa

Weetslope
Cutdno^ Trout

Katnkx^
Rainbow Trout

1932

5,000

1933

1935

15,000

1936

1937

1940

1942

3,400

1943

1,800

1944

1,500

1945

2,135

1946

3,260

1948

5,750

1952

3,000

1963

1970

1972

^,j||™

1973

1975

.:•:■:■:■;•;-:■:■

1976

1978

1979

1980

1981

1982

3408

1983

3,016

1984

3,046

1985

2,511

1986

2,521

1987

2,511

1988

.2,516

1990

1992

2,522

1994

2,500

17.300

8,500

25.000

3,950

.■;-;vKvKwMCOKv;v .-

104,000

49.456

8,400

3,010

5,078

5,799::

8,694
3,760
3,990

3,990

1985
1986

2,511

2,521

1

1987

2,511

1988

.2,516

s*-

-. -. %

% % %%^^^-. ■.•. ^sn •.-.•.

.s.ss<&4

1990

2,490

3,047

1992

2,522

1994

2,500

58

LOON AND LITTLE LOON LAKES

Tjilcpiysfriptionst

Because of their connections through the Pleasant Valley Fisher River, Loon Lake and Little Loon
Lake will be considered as a single management unit for the purposes of this document. Loon
Lake is a large lake south of U.S. Highway 2 and west of Horseshoe Lake. The Pleasant Valley
Fisher River flows into the lake on the northeast shore and out again at the southwest shoreline.
Loon Lake has a maximum depth of 1 14 feet and a surface area of 238 acres (Figure 10).

Litfle Loon Lake is a small lake downstream of Loon Lake via the Pleasant Valley Fisher River.
Little Loon Lake has a maximum depth of 38 feet and a surface area of 11 .6 acres (Figure 1 1).
Between March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 421 anglers, of
which 75 percent were Montana residents, fished at Loon and Little Loon Lakes (Montana
Statewide Angling Pressure Report).

¥.alfP<: ManaftrntiPnt Sfatiis;

Management of Loon and LitUe Loon lakes commenced in 1931 when 15,(X)0 chinook salmon
were planted (Table 18). The lakes have been planted with a variety of species since tiiat time
including rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat trout, brook trout, arctic grayling, and smallmouth
bass. Gill-netting and creel surveys from the 1950s and 1960s indicated Uiat Loon and Littie Loon
lakes had a wide variety of native and non-native species at one time or another.

Native to the lakes in 1956 were westslope cutthroat tix)ut, bull trout, mountain whitefish, northern
squawfish, largescale suckers, longnose suckers, and Columbia River chubs (peamouths). Also
found in the lakes as the result of unauthorized plants were largemouth bass, pumpkinseeds,
yellow perch, and northern pike. Despite the tremendous diversity and species makeup, Loon
Lake continued to provide good to excellent fishing for bass, yellow perch, and rainbow trout into
the 1980s.

Due to the high diversity of fish species, including four to six highly predacious species, and
because rehabilitation was impossible due to the open system, stocking trout as a management tool
was discontinued in Loon Lake in 1977. Currently the lakes are managed as a self-reproducing
bass/trout/yellow perch fishery. A gill-netting survey in Loon Lake in 1992 indicated both
largemouth bass and smallmouth bass and rainbow trout were relatively abundant and in good
condition.

Northern squawfish and pumpkinseeds are present in high densities and bull trout apparently no
longer exist in the lakes or exist at such low densities that current sampling techniques have not
captured them. An additional gill-net survey conducted on Littie Loon Lake in 1994 showed
similar species compositions, excqH that rainbow trout were not captured. Currentiy most angling
is directed toward largemouUi and smallmouth bass and perch Trout catch rates are low but
steady. Catch rates on yellow perch are high in spring/summer and winter but only a moderate
percentage of the perch are ctmsidered to be of keeping size (greater than eight inches). Spearing
was banned on the lake in the 1970s to discourage poaching.

59

(0

c

(0

4-1

c

(0

>-^

c
o
o

o

4-1

c
o
u

o

i-H

•H

60

(0

c

(0

■M

c

£

•H

O
&

§

61

Table 18. Historic planting of Loon and Little Loon Lakes, 1931-1977.

Number of Fish Planted

Year

Ounodc
Sairam

lUsJbow
Trout

Brook
Troot

AjTCtiC

Orayling

Cutthrort
TmuA

SasniiDaotitit:
BasB

1931
1932
1934
1937
1938
1940
1941
1944
1945
1946
1948
1950
1953
1954
1955
1958
1959
I960
1961
1964
1969
1974
1977

15,000

S,000
2,000

185»000
145,000

11,700

raJKHE[j||]rj:

3,920
3.320

4.000

10,000

5,000

12.650

.■»\ ^ V j*n.-: i-W"^^ ■'"^

■ ■««««■ S-«.*.%sX'ViM«ss \

1,200
3,200
1,040
2,000

4,070

20»768
8,842

9,000

Management Concerns;

1. Because of their connection to the Fisher River and Kootenai River drainages, any species
planted either authorized or unauthorized, is a potential problem for downstream concerns.

2. Increasing numbers of nongame fish (squawfish, pumpkinseeds) may make maintaining
gamefish difficult.

3. The flow-through nature of the system makes it nearly impossible to rotenone the lakes to
adequately kill all target fish.

4. A high percoitage of warmwater fish (bass, perch) contain parasites in their flesh and this
makes them undesirable to many anglers.

62

Preferred Manay eitipnt Option:

Management options considered included present management with no stocking, attempts to
increase bass populations with artificial structure and spawning enhancement, chemical
rehabilitation, and supplemental stocking of rainbow trout. Loon and Little Loon lakes received
53 comments.

Under the prefCTred management option, Loon/Little Loon lakes would be managed for both warm
and coldwater species. Through monitoring and adaptive management, rainbow trout may be
stocked to supplement the wild population. The source of the trout should be from the spawning
run of Loon Lake. Warmwater management would emphasize largemouth and smallmouth bass.
This lake system would be included in a comprehensive genetic survey to determine if
supplemental stocking is necessary. Additionally, artificial structures may be installed and
monitored to detamine ttieir effectiveness. The artificial structures would not impede the rainbow
trout fishoy. Regulati(ms for bass should include spawning restrictions (May 15 through June 30;
one bass daily and in possession, 22 inch minimum).

MYRON LAKE

T«aKft DfSfription;

Myron Lake is a small closed-basin lake north of Loon Lake and U.S. Highway 2. The maximum
dq)th of Myron Lake is about 25 fleet, and the surface area is approximately 5.5 acres. FWP did
not estimate angling pressure for Myron Lake, although it probably supports more than 75 anglers
per year.

TjikP Managpmpnt Status;

Management of Myron Lake commenced in 1973 when an initial gill-net survey produced no fish.
In August of that year, 4,080 westsl(^ cutthroat trout were stocked in the lake (Table 19). Since
that time, FWP has managed Myron Lake as a low fishing pressure lake. Since 1980, the lake
has received trout (species dependent on availability) on a two-year rotation to maximize growth
rates.

Myron Lake appears to be one of the very few lakes in the region that was not illegally stocked
with undesirable fish species. A gill-net survey conducted in 1994 produced only rainbow trout
and westslope cutthroat trout from previous stocking. The catch rate was moderate (2 per net)
although the growth and condition of the trout was above average for TCL lakes.

Myron Lake is totally surrounded by Plum Creek Timberlands property that may go up for sale
in 1997. A change in ownership and loss of public access would preclude management of this
lake for a public fishery.

63

Mflnagpniftnt Concerns;

1 . As with all of the TCL lakes, there is concon that unauthorized introductions of unwanted
species might occur.

Preferred Mflnagement Optinni

Management options considered included the current management and stocking schedule,
consideration for large or trophy trout management, increasing trout stocking rates, or switching
to westslope cutthroat plants. Myron Lake received 48 comments.

Under the preferred management option, Myron Lake would be managed as a westslope cutthroat
lake. Through monitoring and adaptive management, FWP would adjust stocking rates to
maximize catch rates. All activities proposed are provisional on acquiring a permanent access
agreement with Plum Creek Timber Company as the lake is entirely within Plum Creek lands.

Table 19. Historic planting of Myron Lake, 1973-1994.

Ye«r

Species Stocked

NunAw Wanted

1973

westslope cutthroat trout

;4,p8p

1976

wedslope cutthroat fanxrt

3.010

1978

westslope cutthroat trout

3,000

i,,m:^iMmm,mmm.

mmmmsm>miap<> cuttittort ^cm^mmmm

1.000

. V..^. .AlW ^

1 1980

westslope cutthroat trout

1,007

1981

westslope cutthroat trout

1.008

1 1983

lainibow trout

1,028

1.503

1985

TBiaix>w trout

1987

rainbow trout

1,001

19^

, ,, , westslope ciMmti:lM^^^^m^>i -

1*485 V

.^*^

1990

rainbow trout

1,512

1992
1994

rajobow trout
westslope cutthroat trout

1,500

1.500

__J

Lake Description:

BANANA LAKE

Banana Lake is a small closed-basin lake north of Horseshoe Lake and U.S. Highway 2. The
maximum depth of Banana Lake is 17 feet, mean depth is 10 feet, and surface area is 1 1.5 acres.
Between March 1, 1993 and February 28, 1994, FWP estimated that as many as 41 anglers, of
which 100 percent were Montana residents, fished at Banana Lake (Montana Statewide Angling
Pressure Report).
Tjike Manngement Status;

64

No official records exist for Banana Lake prior to 1988. In 1988, Banana Lake was gillnetted to
identify ^Kcies constituency and angling opportunities. Species composition in the lake consisted
of longnose suckers, northern squawfish, and pumpkinseeds from unauthorized plants. FWP
chemically rehabilitated the lake with rotenone in the fall of 1988 and in 1989 planted the lake
with rainbow trout.

A gill-net survey in 1992 indicated that the rehabilitation was a success (no targeted nongame
species were found) and rainbow trout planted in 1989 showed good growth and condition.
Banana Lake was surveyed again in 1994. Rainbow trout from both 1991 and 1993 plants were
caught in the nets and both showed above average growth and conditions. Currently FWP
manages the lake for plants of rainbow trout on a two-year rotating basis to maximize growth.

Manafpniffnt rniwerns:

1. As with all chemically rehabilitated lakes, FWP is concerned that unauthorized
introductions of unwanted species might occur.

2. It is possible that high flows from the Pleasant Valley Fisher River could overcome the
lake and once again give undesirable species access to the lake.

Preferred Mflnagpnwnt Option:

Management options considered included the current management and stocking schedule,
consideration as a large or trophy trout lake, increase stocking rates, or switch to westslope
cutthroat.

Under the preferred managemoit (^on. Banana Lake would be managed as a rainbow trout lake
with possible additions of westslope cutthroat. Through monitoring and adaptive management,
FWP will adjust stocking rates to maximize catch rates.

LOST LAKE
TjikpTW^sfriptinn;

Lost Lake is a small spring fed lake north of Middle Thompson Lake and U.S. Highway 2. The
maximum depth of Lost Lake is approximately 20 feet and surface area is 4.5 acres. An
intermittent outlet stream (Slimmer Creek) flows to Middle Thompson Lake. FWP did not
estimate angling pressure for Lost Lake.

65

fjiki' Managpnwnt Stotus:

No official stocking or gillnetting records exist for Lost Lake prior to 1994. In 1994, Lost Lake
was gillnetted to identily species constituency and angling opportunities. Species composition in
the lake omsisted of brook trout (2 per net), longnose suckers (19 per net), and yellow perch (36
per net). The brook trout were small but in good condition. Of the yellow perch caught, only
eight percent were eight inches or larger. Brook trout were established either by unscheduled
stocking or by illegal introductions; yellow perch are undoubtedly from unauthorized
introductions; the longnose suckers are native to the system. Currently, there is no adopted
management scheme for this lake.

Lost Lake is physically removed somewhat from the TCL and relatively difficult to access. It
does provide an opportunity for a secluded fishing opportunity. Lost Lake is totally surrounded
by Plum Creek Timberland property. It is not scheduled for sale at this time. A change in
ownership in the future could preclude public access and public fishery management.

Managpiwnt Concerns:

High rough fish numbers make successful stocking of trout difficult.
Preferred Managpiwont Oprinni

Management options considered included no change in management, stocking with trout, or
chemical rehab and restock with trout. There were 48 comments on Lost Lake.

Under the preferred management option, Lost Lake would be rehabilitated as funding becomes
available and restocked to create a fishery that would include arctic grayling and westslope
cutthroat trout. Through monitoring and adaptive management, the fishery would be evaluated
and stocking rates adjusted to balance catch rates with preferred size of fish. All activities
proposed are provisional on acquiring a permanent access agreement with Plum Creek Timber
Company as the lake is entirely within Plum Creek lands.

66

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