MDWFP Studies Crappie in Lake Washington


MDWFP Fisheries Biologists are studying crappie on Lake Washington to estimate catch rates and harvest rates by anglers. Biologists recently tagged 400 fish with pink tags that look like small pieces of spaghetti. The tags were attached to the fish's back at the base of the dorsal fin. A telephone number and a unique identification number are printed on each tag.

Anglers who catch a tagged crappie are asked to call (662) 759-6444 and leave a voicemail with their name, phone number, and the tag identification number. After reporting their tag, anglers should drop the tag off at one of the following three bait shops located on Lake Washington: Roy's Store, Bait-n-Thang's, or The Gator Den and receive a free fishing towel. At the end of the study, three tags will be randomly drawn and special prize packages will be awarded to the anglers with the winning tag numbers. Anglers do not have to be present at the drawing to win a prize.

According the Fisheries Biologist Darrin Hardesty, "Lake Washington is one of the best crappie lakes in the state, and information collected from this study will help us refine our crappie management plan."