Aquaculture America 2024

February 18 - 21, 2024

San Antonio, Texas

INTENSIVE PRODUCTION OF WALLEYE Zander vitreus IN FLOW-THROUGH AND RECIRCULATING WATER SYSTEMS FROM START TO FINISH INCLUDING HATCHERY DESIGN IMPLICATIONS

Gregory J.  Fischer

 Senior Fisheries/Aquaculture Biologist

 McMillen Inc.

1471 Shoreline Drive, Suite 100, Boise, ID 83702

Fischer@mcmillen.com

 



 Walleye (Zander vitreus) is o ne of the most culturally important and sought-after species of freshwater sport fish in North America .  Walleye stocking is a major program of many fisheries agencies in North America; at least 32 state, federal, and provincial agencies reported stocking walleye between 1986 and 1991.  All life stages are cultured intensively and extensively including Eggs , Fry, Small Fingerlings(summer) , Extended Growth Fingerlings(fall) , Yearlings and Adults-Broodstock .  Typically eggs and fry are cultured indoors, and the other life stages are reared utilizing external outdoor ponds of various types.  More recently, indoor, intensive systems are being utilized for culture of all life stages with new and improved equipment  as well as formulated feeds.  Many state, federal, tribal and private entities are designing and constructing new facilities for rearing Walleye and other cool water fish intensively for stocking programs.  This presentation will discuss the  biology, design and a pplication of  intensive systems  for c onservation, e nhancement, and s portfish m anagement programs as it relates to Walleye.