Wildlife Experts Study State's Fish Population

November 4, 2007

Release from: WVNS-TV

MULLENS - Officials said the data on the state's fish population will be used to ensure fishing remains a popular pastime in West Virginia.

Since 2003, biologists have tagged more than 4,000 fish throughout the state. They mark them with small tags and release them back into the water. Then, when they're caught, fishermen are asked to return the tag to DNR. Fisherman provide the DNR with information like where the fish was caught. Officials use the data to track fish patterns and harvest rates.

Each time fishermen bring in a tag, they also fill out a wildlife survey. Part of that data shows about 26 percent of West Virginia fishermen are younger than 15 years old.

They said that information shows the state needs to continue campaigns to increase young people's interest in nature.