Throw back the big fish and keep the small ones

(PhysOrg.com) -- Scientists at the University of Toronto analysed Canadian fisheries data to determine the effect of the "keep the large ones" policy that is typical of fisheries. What they found is that the effect of this policy is an unsustainable fishery.

In fact, the opposite policy (keep the small young ones and throw back the large old ones) would result in a more sustainable fishery. In short -- a big fish in the water is worth two in the net.

Put simply, a fish population will produce more young -- and therefore sustain more fishing -- if it is made up of big, old fish.

The team of scientists used a simple population model, as well as evaluating data from 25 marine fish species. They also tailored their methods to allow for other possible causes for the results, such as the effect of climate.

Finding ways to replenish fishery stocks and improve management provides both ecological and financial benefits.

January Bear Creek

What a great couple of hours! I love Bear Creek. Quiet and still - snow everywhere and just a few tracks of small animals. The creek was mostly iced up - but a line of open water can be found here and there.
My first catch was a nice brown caught on a green flash pheasant tail #18
Then, in a larger deeper pool I got a large wonderfully colored rainbow trout with bright red cheeks.
This fish was big! I had real problems getting him in over the ice shelf. A beautiful heavy fish at around 14 -15 inches. Thrown back of course!

Skiing 2009

5.30am start to the day (not my idea of fun) - wake Daniel and Eve - cook Pancakes as a way to bribe them into being jolly.. throw gear into car - speed out of town to I70 and up to Breckenridge.

From Ski2009

From Ski2009