Propagated Fish in Resource Management

Fundamentals of Fisheries Management, 2003: Developments in Wyoming since 1994

Robert W. Wiley

doi: https://doi.org/10.47886/9781888569698.ch11

Abstract.—Fisheries managers have stewardship responsibility for aquatic resources. This means making decisions that are ecologically sound, economically sensible, and socially acceptable. The vexing problem lies in balancing ecological, economic, and sociologic ideals with ethical and moral (professional) stewardship responsibilities. Foresighted fisheries management has seven practical elements: (1) thoroughly inventory ecological and habitat characteristics of watersheds; (2) manage for native or wild fish wherever possible; (3) determine genetic strengths of broodstocks so their offspring are used where they are suited; (4) manage according to the fish production limits of waters; (5) stock only waters where trout reproduction is limited or absent; (6) develop fisheries management plans by drainage basin; (7) establish fisheries management programs based on recognition of all public desires, not just the utilitarian aspect. Once public, including angler, desires are understood, fisheries managers must work to instill in the public a sound resource philosophy and then integrate that public awareness with ecological technology to progress in fisheries management.