Water quality was a mixed bag. Clarity was good on the lake, but fair on the river. Clear water was partially attributed to a calm day on the lake, but clarity on the lake exceeded that of any reading form June 2, to October 6, 2011 by 1.5 feet!
Aquatic plant beds continue to look good, and excellent compared to last year. Water clarity in the west shore plant beds was superb. I estimate it exceeded seven feet. I could clearly make out all the patterns on a 32 inch northern pike gliding through the water three feet down. There were also dozens of last year's bluegill hatch, and too many minnows to count.
so why is it so clear? Do you think it is attributed to the rough fish removal last year?
ReplyDeleteGood question. There are many factors that affect water clarity, and in the short term it can't be known for sure what is causing it, or if it will continue for the rest of the season. However, the very good water clarity in the aquatic plant beds is probably 90% attributed to the dozen ways plants protect water quality.
ReplyDeleteAs far as the rough fish go, did their removal have an impact? The answer is yes, but whether the increase in clarity is 1,5,25 or 50% attributable to the rough fish removal no one can say for certain. Removal of fish such as carp is practiced with success around the world to improve fisheries, wildlife habitat, and water quality. We should have a better idea over the next few years what the effect on water quality is for Lake Puckaway.
great lake if they keep water in it
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