Fishing forecast for 2008

This forecast is based on sampling conducted in 2007 and on water level conditions at the time this forecast was written - changes in water level and other factors could affect the accuracy of this forecast. For current fishing reports, visit our Web site at www.kdwp.state.ks.us/news/fishing/fishing_reports. This link provides access to the KDWP Fishing Report pages as well as the Public Fishing Reports page and will allow you to post angling reports of your own on the public page. Anglers are encouraged to utilize this process for sharing information thereby supplementing the Web-based fishing reports.

CEDAR BLUFF RESERVOIR -- As of Feb. 1, the reservoir elevation was 15.8 feet below full pool. Muley ramp in Page Creek on the south side is the only south shore facility usable at this level. The west Overland ramp and the north Cove 1 ramp in the North Shore State Park, and the ramp just east of Cove 3 in the wildlife area are the launching facilities on the north shore of the reservoir.

WALLEYE - Fair. Walleye sampling in the fall of 2007 revealed similar total numbers as the year before. However, due to the modest harvest enjoyed in 2007, and the resulting decline of cohorts from the '04 and '03 year classes, legal walleyes available for 2008 will be lower. 14 percent of walleye sampled in the fall were larger than 18 inches, as opposed to 55 percent the year before. Future walleye angling years at Cedar Bluff look promising with very good numbers of fish in the 16 to 17.5 inch range (2005 year-class) and in the 13 to 15 inch range (2006 group). These two year classes combined to make up over two-thirds of the 2007 gill net sample. Cedar Bluff ranks third among Kansas reservoirs regarding the statewide forecast for walleye density. 18 inch Minimum length limit in effect.

WIPERS - Good to Fair. A 35 percent reduction in wipers sampled, coupled with a 10 percent decline in average individual body condition from the 2006 sample to this past fall's netting, reveals degradation in the quality of wiper angling opportunities at Cedar Bluff for 2008. In 2007, the reservoir was beset with the poorest forage characteristics relative to gizzard shad dynamics, of any year since the mid-1980s. Lack of commensurate shad size and numbers negatively affected the open-water sportfish of Cedar Bluff. Within the wiper population, this is manifested by thin-looking fish and a significantly higher annual mortality rate. The population continues to be made up mostly of fish from the 1999, 2004, and 2005 year classes. Wiper numbers among these groups, especially the younger wipers, still remain good and should provide for good angling success. Come spring,

anglers will notice the negative effects of a tough 2007, in the fish they catch. Daily creel limit is two wipers.

WHITE BASS - Good to Fair. The 2008 rating for whites has slipped in response to the forage travesty mentioned above. The old adage, "every boom is followed by a crash, inch sums up the situation. The past four to five years of exceptionally high white bass density has caused ramifications that may a take a year or two to straighten out. The reservoir, with its high white bass numbers of a year ago, entered into the 2007 shad hatch season with an over abundance of hungry mouths. The whites quickly got on top of the young shad, reducing their numbers in a mad fashion. What resulted was extremely fast growth of the few shad left, making them inconsumable for all but the largest of predators. Whites could be hard to come by if natural mortality is high. On the other hand, if a fair number hang on, they'll be awfully hungry come spring, and may attack any lure that hits the water. Cedar Bluff is 2nd among Kansas reservoirs regarding the statewide forecast for white bass density rating.

CATFISH - Good. For the first time in the history of written forecasts for any upcoming fishing season at Cedar Bluff, the channel catfish rating is not excellent. The poor forage conditions of 2007 have reduced catfish quality in terms of condition, and catfish numbers just weren't there when October sampling rolled around. There will still be good numbers available, over a wide size range. But, fish caught will show the signs of less food, and the catch rates will be off slightly as compared to what the die-hard Cedar Bluff catfishers are used to.

BLACK BASS - Fair to Poor. The spring 2007 electrofishing sample for largemouth bass at Cedar Bluff resulted in the lowest total number of largemouths sampled since modern day electrofish sampling was initiated in 1996. In addition, the average condition index for individual fish sampled declined noticeably from that observed in 2006. Recruitment of young bass has not been realized since 2001, limiting hope of any stabilization of largemouth numbers. As mentioned in prior years, the only thing that will turn this tide is a significant water level rise flooding terrestrial vegetation to create the critical nursery habitat needed of young largemouths. Spotted bass numbers are maintaining somewhat, although it appears over the past few years even their recruitment levels are declining in response to reservoir conditions, and it appears that the smallmouth population is in serious decline, unless the fish just weren't hanging out in their normal fall areas and we missed them electrofishing in late September - only four smallies were observed.

CRAPPIE - Poor. No change here from last year's forecast. As with the bass situation above, a healthy shot of water is the only thing that's going to turn this scenario to positive. Fall trap net samples continue to represent the lowest adult crappie density observed at Cedar Bluff since impoundment of the reservoir. The crappie spawning period which begins around the third week in April, is one of the best times to find crappies concentrated. The spawn begins at the lake's upper end, which warms quicker due to overall shallower depths and slightly darker water. Spawn progression continues down the lake as deeper water warms. Despite the very low densities existing, anglers should expect to catch spawning crappies in the 3/4 to 1-1/2 pound range in 2008. But

Remember, numbers will be low. Moving from one area to another during the spawn, as a particular location slows down can yield more fish per angler per day.

GLEN ELDER RESERVOIR - Approximately 6.5 feet low as of February. A commercial fishing operation has been concluded at Glen Elder with 1.25 million pounds of non-sport fish removed.

BLACK BASS - Good. Smallmouth bass continue to dominate the black bass fishery and another good sample was collected this year. The smallie population again ranks second in the state for both density and quality. Most fish will range from 10-16 inch with fish up to 20 inch possible. The largest fish collected during fall electrofishing weighed 3.8 pounds with several other 2-3 pound fish sampled. The best months to fish for smallies include April, May, September, and October. The fish move deep during the summer and can be difficult to find. Smallmouth can be found around the bluffs, along the dam and Cawker City causeway, and anywhere between Marina Cove and the dam. Largemouth bass numbers remain low with limited numbers of adult fish in the 14 to 21 inch range, and a few spotted bass still remain. 18 inch minimum length limit in effect.

CATFISH - Good. The channel catfish population will be similar to 2007 with total catch higher, but size structure slightly smaller. Glen Elder ranks 6th in the state among

reservoirs for density, up from 8th last year. Approximately 50 percent of the catch was between 11 and 15 inches with 40 percent over 15 inch, and 10 percent over 20 inch. Biggest fish collected was 16 pounds and trophy potential is fair. The 2007 creel survey indicated that channel catfish rank 1st annually for both interest and numbers harvested at Glen Elder. Fishing over chum piles with stinkbaits, cut shad, and nightcrawlers is the most popular method during the summer. Fishing the south bluffs, Cawker City causeway, and other rocky areas during the spawn can yield nice limits of catfish. Setliners have good success for both channels and flatheads fishing up the river channels, around Mill Creek, and in the Walnut Creek area.

CRAPPIE - Poor. White and black crappie numbers continue a steady decline with the lowest adult catch in the history of the reservoir. Only 10 adult fish were collected during 23 net nights of sampling. On a brighter note, the second best catch rate of young crappie in 15 years was collected in 2007 due to a limited amount of flooded vegetation. If these fish are able to survive through this summer, a year class of crappie could be produced. Additional flooded vegetation due to a water level increase in 2008 would help survival of these fish and assist in the production of another year class. Fishing will be best for 2-3 weeks in the spring during spawning activities in Osage and Marina Coves and around riprap at the Cawker causeway. Best areas post spawn, summer, and fall will be near fish attractor brush piles around the north bank near Campground 3, Mill Creek, Harrison Point, and below the Cawker causeway.

STRIPED BASS - Poor. Striped bass have been stocked in Glen Elder approximately every other year with 2004 the final year of stocking, and the 2002 and 2004 year classes

should continue to dominate the catch in 2008. The 2004 fish have grown to 20-22 inch with the 2001 and 2002 fish 25-28 inch. The occasional trophy striper over 40 inch may be caught as well, but these guys can be tough to find. Very few anglers target stripers at Glen Elder, but a few are caught incidentally while fishing for other species. The best opportunities to catch stripers are through the ice on the west end or off the dam in the spring when the fish move up shallow from deeper water.

WALLEYE - Fair. Walleye catch rate declined in 2008 with the second lowest adult number realized in the history of the reservoir. A catch rate of 3.2 adults per net complement was down from 8.7 in 2007, and is second only to the 2005 catch rate of 1.9. These low numbers come despite the production of several strong year classes over the last 4 years which averaged 7.2 young walleye per net, above the management objective of 6. Walleye age structure is still very young with most fish coming from the 2005 and 2006 year classes. Size structure consists of most fish between 14 and 19 inches with a few 20-23 inch fish as well. Largest fish collected was only 4.4 pounds so trophy potential is limited. A good year class was produced in 2007 with an average of 4.0 age-0 fish collected per 1 inch gill net. These fish will provide catch and release opportunities in 2008 and should contribute to the harvest in 2009. A combination of fry in April and fingerlings in May will again be stocked in the reservoir. A minimum length limit of 18 inch will be proposed for Glen Elder walleye beginning in 2009 to help protect these young fish and increase walleye numbers.

WHITE BASS - Excellent. The strong white bass population observed over the last few years shows no signs of change in 2008 with another excellent sample collected in the fall. This population ranks 4th in the state for density and 1st in the state for fish over 15 inch--real trophies. Fish from the strong 2006 year class will dominate the catch with most 11 to 13 inch, but fish from the 2005 year class will also be numerous and range from 14-15 inch. Fair numbers of fish between 15 and 18 inches were collected as well with the biggest fish caught over 3 pounds. Anglers can try a variety of methods to catch white bass with the spring spawning period along the causeway a good bet. Hot summer days will find whites schooling in open water and chasing shad on the surface; fall is often a great time to pull out the slabs and fish along rocky points and other inshore areas, while winter ice fishing may be the best time to catch these guys when they stack up along the river channels.

WIPERS - Fair. Wipers were first stocked in Glen Elder in 2006 at a rate of 5 fingerlings/acre to help control gizzard shad and provide an additional sportfish for anglers. Fall sampling in 2006 revealed an excellent year class was produced with 79 of these fish collected for each 1 inch net that was set. The fish grew very well and most were 8-9 inches when collected in October. Fall sampling in 2007 collected good numbers of these fast-growing fish with most in the 15-16 inch range. Anglers can expect these fish to reach 18-20 inch by fall 2008 and achieve weights up to 4 pounds. Wiper stockings will continue on an alternate year schedule and we will again stock them in 2008. Anglers are encouraged to closely identify your catch as wipers and white bass can look very similar! The daily creel limit on wipers is 2 fish.

KANOPOLIS RESERVOIR - We are in much better shape than last year in regards to water in the reservoir. As of the first of February, the lake was slightly above conservation level with good flows in the river. Hopefully with normal spring rains and

runoff, the lake will remain full and all facilities will be usable.

CATFISH - Good. Channel catfish are available in a wide range of sizes. Larger fish are common but most of the fish we caught last fall were in the pound to 2 pound range. The catfish spawned well last year so the 2007 year class should be strong. Anglers have been chumming catfish over the humps off the south shore with good success. Anglers also caught lots of channels from the shore on traditional baits like shad sides and gizzards, fresh cut bait, dip baits, shrimp, and good ole worms. The supply of flatheads is also good with some that provide a trophy aspect. There were some dandy flatheads taken in the outlet area during periods of high releases last summer and fall.

CRAPPIE - Fair. Crappie numbers in trap nets were up a bit last fall and they spawned up a storm so there should be a good year class coming on. The adult crappie we caught were mostly in the 1/2 pound to 1 pound range and they were in excellent body condition. Low water levels are not kind to crappie who like to spawn in flooded brush or vegetation! Kanopolis falls in 13th place when compared to other reservoirs in the state.

Try the brushpiles and along the edges of the river channel in the off season and around the docks or any flooded shoreline brush vegetation during the spawn with small jigs.

RAINBOW TROUT - Excellent. The seep stream below the reservoir is normally stocked 6 times yearly with 1,500 - 1/2 pound average trout. A few large trout are stocked occasionally to give this area a trophy aspect. The target stocking dates are mid-month October through March. This has become a very popular stream trout fishery and receives high pressure at times. Intense flooding last summer and lack of beaver activity this fall and winter has reduced the pool areas to just 4 that are deep enough to hold trout. This next summer we hope to get started on a stream enhancement project that will provide an additional 5 pools for stocking. Remember, the trout season runs from October 15 through April 15. A trout stamp is required of ALL anglers who fish the seep stream during the trout season and a fishing license is required by those from 16 to 64 years of age.

SAUGEYE/WALLEYE - Fair to Good. Saugeye and walleye numbers in fall nets were up over the past couple of years. We caught good numbers of larger fish and found a fairly strong years class of 2007 fish. Currently, this reservoir is rated # 3 behind Sebelius and Council Grove Reservoirs in saugeye density. Body condition of all the fish was excellent so they are growing well. They are covered by a 15 inch minimum length limit and an aggregate 5 per day creel limit. You will find both species along the dam in the early spring, on the flats in early summer, and the saugeye tend to stay shallow all summer long when the walleye tend to go deep. Get a good supply of night crawlers laid in by spring if you plan to take advantage of this fishery in 2008.

WHITE BASS - Excellent. Numbers of whites have been high for several years now with good numbers of fish in all size ranges. The fish are in excellent body condition and there will be some 3 pounders that will definitely bend your rod. Kanopolis dropped a slot to number 5 in the rating of all reservoirs in Kansas for density of white bass. We still have plenty of fish! Look for whites in the upper end early as the water starts warming up and off the points as summer nears. The spring river run is always dictated by the quality of the inflows and the river looks to be prime for a good river run this spring. Some whites will spawn on the dam and the rocky/sandy points even if the river is flowing well. Trolling shad type crank baits is also a good bet if you have a boat and like that type of fishing.

WIPERS - Fair. Wiper numbers in fall nets were down slightly this year and we just don't seem to be growing the bigger fish that other reservoirs are - not really sure why!!! There are moderate numbers of fish in the 7 to 10 pound range that will definitely tighten your line. Kanopolis ranks # 13 amongst Kansas reservoirs in wiper density and really takes a back seat to those like Milford, Sebelius, and even Cedar Bluff. Wipers are often found in with schools of white bass and are fond of windblown points. Bucktail jigs and shad imitation crank baits are traditional wiper baits. Anglers do not want to overlook the brushpiles, especially in the fall as the wipers and white bass really stack up around them at times.

KIRWIN RESERVOIR - As of February 1, 2008, the reservoir elevation was 20.8 feet below full pool. Usable ramps at this level are located at the Low Water and South Shore launching areas.

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BLACK BASS - Poor. Bass were not sampled this past spring due to the low water levels and lack of habitat. Because of the low water levels, largemouth bass will be heavily concentrated around areas of remaining cover. These areas include the Outlet and rocky outcrops along Crappie Point and Cottonwood Grove areas. There is still a remnant population of largemouth bass that can be caught around these areas. A 15 inch length limit is in effect.

CATFISH - Good. The overall supply of channel catfish is pretty good with fish scattered over a wide size range. The population is currently dominated by fish in the 8 to 15 inch size range. Individuals in the 8 to 15 inch size range accounted for 58 percent of the fall 2007 sample. Fish in the 18 to 24 inch size range accounted for 39 percent and

fish 24 inches plus accounted for 3 percent. The biggest channel catfish sampled in 2007 weighed 6.01 pounds. The supply of flatheads is also good with most of the fish in the 9 to 18 pound range. The biggest flathead sampled in 2007 weighed 19.66 pounds.

CRAPPIE - Poor to Fair. Both white and black crappie numbers have dropped dramatically due to harvest, the effects of natural mortality and receding water levels over past seasons. The receding water levels, however, should concentrate fish to areas containing habitat such as the maintained fish attractors. A slight water level rise this past year has produced a good crappie spawn with 98 percent of the fall sample consisting of 3 to 8 inch fish. Hopefully these fish will recruit on up to produce some good fishing in the next couple of years. There are still a few bigger fish in the population with 2 percent of the sample being 8 to 12 inch fish. The biggest fish sampled in 2007 was a white crappie weighing 1.3 pounds and a black crappie weighing 1.1 pounds.

WALLEYE - Fair. There will be quite a bit of catch and release this year since individuals in the 9 to 15 inch range accounted for 86 percent of the sample. However, there will be some nice catches of harvestable fish in the 15 to 20 inch size range accounting for 12 percent of the 2007 fall sample. The potential for catching larger fish also exists with individuals in the 20 inch plus size range accounting for 2 percent. Kirwin's density rating (15 inches and above) is 6th amongst all reservoirs in the state this year. The biggest fish sampled this past year weighed 7.84 pounds. A 15 inch length limit is in effect.

WHITE BASS - Fair. This population is currently dominated by fish in the 6 to 9 inch size range accounting for 90 percent of the 2007 sample. Individuals in the 10 to 12 inch size range accounted for 3 percent and fish 13 to 16 inches accounted for 7 percent. Surface action should also provide some exciting opportunities throughout the reservoir during the summer months. Most of the fish will be running in the 1/2 to 1 1/2 pound range. The biggest fish sampled this past year weighed 1.56 pounds.

WIPERS - Good. The supply is strong and the quality of this fishery is back up even with the low water levels. Fish in the 15 to 20 inch size range are especially plentiful this year. Individuals in the 6 to 15 inch size range accounted for 23 percent of the fall 2007 sample. Fish in the 15 to 20 inch size range accounted for 61 percent and fish 20 inches plus accounted for 16 percent. The density rating for wipers at Kirwin (12 inches and above) is 5th amongst all reservoirs in the state this year. The biggest fish sampled this past year weighed 5.83 pounds.

LOVEWELL RESERVOIR - Approximately 1 foot low and rising as of February.

CATFISH - Good. Number of channel catfish sampled in fall 2007 was up significantly from 2006 and was actually the second best catch rate in the last 15 years. Lovewell improved from 19th in the state rankings in 2007 to 7th in 2008. In addition, size structure was improved with good numbers of 16 to 20 inch fish available as well as fair numbers of 20 to 30 inch fish. Catch rate of young fish was the highest in 15 years, indicating more fish will be coming on in the next couple of years. Largest fish sampled was 11.5 pounds and several others over 25 inch were collected. Flathead catfish sampling last summer indicated good numbers of 20-26 inch fish with others over 20 pounds common. Channels and flatheads will be vulnerable in all arms of the reservoir, including Montana, Windmill, and Prairie Dog Creek, as well as up White Rock Creek near the Highway 14 bridge. During peak irrigation releases, catfish can be readily caught close to the inlet and outlet structures, and are susceptible along the dam and other rocky areas during the spawn.

CRAPPIE - Poor to Fair. The Lovewell crappie population which peaked in the early 2000's continued a gradual downward trend in 2007 with only a handful of adult fish captured during fall sampling. Total numbers in the fall nets were the lowest in 5 years, but the size structure was good with all adults between 10-12 inch and in excellent condition. These fish will provide a fair crappie fishery during the spawn in 2008 if anglers can locate them, but the future beyond looks bleak until a couple of strong year classes can be established. Increased numbers of age-0 crappie were sampled this year with the second highest catch rate in the last five years observed. The water level remained fairly high following the 2007 irrigation season and abundant flooded vegetation was available. If these young fish can survive and recruit to the fishery, it would be the first established year class since 2003. Several brushpiles are maintained annually to help concentrate fish for anglers, and decent success can be found fishing around the flooded vegetation in Montana Creek and other coves during late April and May when the fish are spawning.

WALLEYE - Fair. A modest increase in walleye numbers was realized in 2007 with numbers of age-1 and older fish nearly double the 2006 catch. Many of these fish are still going to be under the length limit with the strong 2006 year class accounting for 67 percent of all adults collected. These fish will likely be available for harvest in 2009. There was also an increase in the number of legal-size fish collected with 30 percent of the adults over 18 inch. This fishery continues to be dominated by one and two year old fish with numbers declining sharply once fish are legal for harvest. The third strong year class in five years was produced and anglers should expect to see high numbers of 12-15 inch one year olds. Entrainment rates were the highest over the last three years with an estimated 7,000 young walleye lost during irrigation releases. Anglers should expect a slight increase in the walleye fishing in 2008 with much higher numbers of 15-18 inch fish available and slightly higher numbers of legal fish. Fishing continues to be best from late April through early June with anglers drifting jig/nightcrawler combos having the best success. 18 inch minimum length limit in effect.

WHITE BASS - Good. White bass numbers will be down slightly in 2008 with a density rating of 14.3 this year compared to 20.5 in 2007, but fishing prospects should remain good. The preferred and lunker ratings are similar so numbers of fish over 12 inch will be comparable to 2007. The population consists of high numbers of fish from the strong 2006 year class with fair numbers of 13 to 16 inch fish. Due to a strong shad spawn, body condition of fish was excellent and this should carry over with good growth of these fish through the winter. Another strong year class was produced in 2007 so the future of white bass fishing continues to look good. Anglers can expect a slight decline in numbers of fish in 2008, but overall the white bass fishing prospects still look good. As in the past, the best time to fish for Lovewell whites will be in the summer, during peak irrigation releases. The inlet and outlet areas historically produce the vast majority of whites harvested while summer topwater activity can also be productive.

WIPERS - Good. Wiper numbers will be much improved in 2008 with higher numbers of adults and much improved quality as well. The density rating improved from 2.3 in 2007 to 7.3 in 2008. Preferred and lunker ratings also showed improvement indicating more large fish will be available. Similar to white bass, individual fish condition will be excellent and anglers should see very healthy wipers in 2008. Overall, the population consists of good numbers of 14 to 16 inch fish from the 2006 year class and 18 to 20 inch fish from the 2005 year class. Numbers of fish in the 4-7 pound range will be much improved as well. Wipers were not stocked in 2007, but will be stocked again in 2008. Similar to white bass, decent numbers of wipers can be caught during the irrigation season as the fish migrate to the inlet and outlet areas. Other anglers report good success for bigger wipers trolling crankbaits and deep-diving rapalas along the north shore and the dam.

SEBELIUS RESERVOIR - As of February 1, 2008, the reservoir elevation was 16.0 feet below full pool. Usable ramps at this level include the East West Leota Cove ramps.

BLACK BASS - Fair. The largemouth bass population is dominated by 3 to 8 inch fish accounting for 44 percent of the sample. Largemouth bass in the 8 to 11 inch size range accounted for 10 percent of the sample, fish in the 12 to 15 inch size range accounted for 21 percent and fish over 15 inches made up 25 percent. Good numbers of spotted bass are also present with 69 percent being in the 11 to 17 inch size range. Fish the rocky areas for the spots. A 15 inch length limit on largemouth and spotted bass is in effect.

CATFISH - Good. According to 2007 netting results, the supply of channel catfish is good with 7 to 11 inch fish being particularly plentiful. Individuals in the 7 to 11 inch size range accounted for 64 percent of the sample, fish in the 11 to 14 inch range accounted for 24 percent and those fish 24 inches and above accounted for 12 percent. The biggest channel sampled weighed 13.12 pounds. Also, flathead numbers are on the rise and these big cats are becoming an important component of the catfish fishery. Individuals in the 23 to 28 inch size range accounted for 70 percent of the sample and fish 28 inches plus accounted for 30 percent. The biggest flathead sampled in 2007 weighted 16.95 pounds.

CRAPPIE - Fair to Good. White crappie numbers dropped slightly from last year while black crappie numbers have increased. Crappie numbers are still low due to harvest, the effects of natural mortality and low water levels over past seasons. The low water levels should concentrate fish to areas containing habitat such as the maintained fish attractors. Currently, crappie are present in fair numbers for whites and good numbers for blacks. Both the white and black crappie had good spawn's this past year, so hopefully they will recruit on up to make for some good fishing in the years to come. Crappie in the 3-6 inch size range accounted for 86 percent of the sample, fish in the 6-10 inch size range accounted for 10 percent and fish 10 inches plus accounted for 4 percent. While fish under ¾ of a pound are likely to dominate the catch this year, some fish in the 1 to 1 1/2 pound range will be taken as well. The biggest white crappie sampled weighed 0.93 pounds and the biggest black crappie weighed 1.45 pounds.

SAUGEYE/WALLEYE - Good. Catch rates will be pretty good again this year and the opportunity for harvest will be good as well. The saugeye population is still hanging in there with 39 percent of the sample being represented by 8 to 15 inch fish and fish 15 to 18 inches accounted for 30 percent. Harvestable fish in the 18 to 22 inch size range accounted for 17 percent and fish in the 22 inches plus size range accounted for 14 percent of the 2007 fall sample. The biggest saugeye sampled weighed 6.2 pounds. Sebelius still holds the current state record (9.81 lbs.) which was caught in November 1998. Sebelius's density rating (14 inches and above) is 1st amongst all reservoirs in the state again this year. The supply of walleye is modest with the majority of fish running in the 15 to 18 inch size range. An 18 inch length limit is in effect for saugeye and walleye.

WIPERS - Excellent. The supply is strong and the quality of this fishery is good as well. Fish in the 15 to 20 inch size range are especially plentiful with larger fish available as well. Individuals in the 12 to 15 inch size range accounted for 22 percent of the 2007 fall sample, fish in the 15 to 20 inch size range accounted for 60 percent and larger fish (20 inches plus) accounted for 18 percent. The biggest wiper sampled in the fall of 2007 weighted 5.1 pounds. Sebelius's density rating (12 inches and above) is 1st amongst all reservoirs in the state this year.

WEBSTER RESERVOIR - As of February 1, 2008, the reservoir elevation was 21.9 feet below full pool. Usable ramps at this level include Rocky Point, Lakeview Goose Flats.

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BLACK BASS - Poor. Bass were not sampled this past spring due to the low water levels and lack of habitat. Due to the low water levels, largemouth bass will be heavily concentrated around areas of remaining cover. These areas include the break water, outlet and bluffs. There is still a remnant population of largemouth bass and an occasional smallmouth bass that may be caught around these same areas. A 15 inch length limit is in effect for both species.

CATFISH - Fair. Channel catfish and flathead numbers should be fair again this year. Channel catfish are scattered over a wide size range with the majority of fish being young of the year and in the 8 to 10 inch size range. This size range accounted for 70 percent of the fall sample. Quality fish in the 21 to 24 inch size range (3 to 5 pounds) accounted for 15 percent. Preferred fish in the 24 to 26 inch size range (5 to 7 pounds) accounted for 7 percent. There will also be some larger fish in the 27 to 35 inch range (8 + pounds) that will test your line out. The biggest channel catfish sampled weighed 6.31 pounds. Flatheads are also present in a wide range of sizes with 5 to 20 pound fish being in the population.

CRAPPIE - Poor. Quantity is down from recent years due to harvest, the effects of natural mortality and low water levels over past seasons. The lower water levels, however, should concentrate fish to areas containing habitat such as the maintained fish attractors. A slight water level rise this past year has produced a good crappie spawn with 95 percent of the fall sample consisting of 3 to 5 inch fish and 3.5 percent being 5 to 7

inches. Hopefully these fish will recruit on up to produce some good fishing in the next couple of years. There are still a few bigger fish in the population with 1.5 percent being 8 to 12 inches in length. The biggest fish sampled was a white crappie weighing 1.35 pounds and a black crappie weighing 0.98 pounds.

RAINBOW TROUT - Very Good to Excellent. The Webster Stilling Basin, a 6-acre impoundment below the dam, is stocked five times (Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Mar) each trout season. Each stocking consists of 2,500 trout averaging approximately ¬½ pound

each with an occasional bigger fish thrown in to make it exciting. Projected stocking dates are usually around the 15th of the month.

WALLEYE - Fair. There is going to be a lot of 9 to 15 inch fish caught this year with the potential for catching keeper walleye also existing. Individuals in the 9 to 15 inch range accounted for 93 percent of the fall sample and 15 to 20 inch fish accounted for 6 percent. The potential for catching larger fish (20 inches plus) also exists this year accounting for 1 percent. The biggest walleye sampled in 2007 weighed 3.81 pounds. A 15 inch length limit is in effect.

WHITE BASS - Fair. This population is currently dominated by 13 to 16 inch fish. Individuals in the 8 to 10 inch size range accounted for 32 percent of the fall 2007 sample and fish in the 13 to 16 inch size range accounted for 68 percent. Surface action should provide some exciting opportunities throughout the reservoir during the summer months. Most of the fish will run in the 1 to 2 pound range. The biggest white bass sampled weighed 2.13 pounds.

WIPERS - Good. The supply should be good again this year and the quality of the fish has improved over last year also. Fish in the 9 to 15 inch size range accounted for 9 percent and fish in the 15 to 20 inch size range are especially plentiful accounting for 64 percent of the fall sample. Larger fish (20 inches +) accounted for 27 percent of the sample, so hang on to those fishing rods. Webster's density rating (12 inches and above) fell to 9th amongst all reservoirs in the state this year. The biggest fish sampled in 2007 weighed 4.48 pounds.

WILSON RESERVOIR - The lake was nearly 3' below conservation elevation as of late January 2008. That is about 4 feet higher than last year at this time. All boat ramps are in the water and usable at this level except for the river ramp near Cedar Creek. We are primed for a continued rise in water levels if spring rains cooperate.

CHANNEL CATFISH - Fair to Good. Catfish are not overly abundant in Wilson but there are plenty of them to make fishing interesting. There are all size ranges and the larger fish look like fat footballs. Recruitment the past 2 years has been limited due to declining water levels but last year they spawned well. Some of the catfish anglers have tried chumming with soaked grains and have had some success with it. Still, most anglers catch catfish from the shore using worms, liver, shrimp and cut bait. Most dedicated catfish anglers concentrate their efforts on the west end of the lake. There are a few flatheads showing up every year so don't be surprised if you tie into one of them too.

CRAPPIE - Fair. Crappie numbers remain moderate and there is a good size distribution at the current time. Black crappie prefer the clearer waters on the lower end of the lake, white crappie are mostly found in the upper half of the lake. Don't overlook the upper end around Elm Creek and Duval - we collected some nice crappie up there in the fall. They seem to be scattered all over the lake.

SMALLMOUTH BASS/LARGEMOUTH BASS - Fair to Good. The low water levels have not been too good for both bass species but numbers got a boost with the flooding of vegetation last year. We've still got a lot of 8 to 14 inch fish with just a few over the 15 inch length limit. There are a few bigger fish but limits of those will be very hard to find. Some of the vegetation growing in the coves and around the exposed shoreline was flooded last year but there is still a lot to go if the water level will continue to rise. Bass really like that cover for spawning and nursery habitat.

STRIPED BASS - Good. Numbers of stripers remain high and our catch rate last fall was pretty good although down slightly from 2006. We still have a lot of those 4 to 6 pounders and it looks like they have fattened up some. That year class of stripers is so strong that they are not growing very fast but they are providing a lot of exciting angling. There appears to be a lack of forage of the right size for those fish to really do real well and the numbers of mouths to feed doesn't help. One real positive is that we caught 5 fish this fall over 15 pounds, the largest a bit over 23 pounds. Those bigger fish are very healthy and will certainly put some strain on someone's fishing tackle!!! The smaller stripers are fat and we have several good year classes coming on. We are stocking stripers fairly heavily as a predator on the white perch and they have been doing a pretty good job of keeping the white perch numbers under control.

WALLEYE - Good. Walleye numbers continue to be quite high in the lake but many of the fish will be in the 11 to 15 inch size range in 2008. We collected a tremendous 2007 year class of walleye, averaging 50 young-of-the-year walleye per inch gill net. Only 1987 proved to be better than this year. There will be fair numbers of fish from 15 to 20 inches and a few more bigger fish to keep everyone excited. You will have to wade through quite a few cigars next summer and throw those shorts back but I think it will still be easy to catch a limit of keepers. Wilson is rated #4 in walleye density behind Cheney, El Dorado, and Cedar Bluff reservoirs. A lot is going to depend on the water level situation - if we get that gradual rise next spring and regain conservation pool, then the walleye should grow well and reach that 15 inch keeper size a little faster. I would get plenty of nightcrawlers rounded up because there are going to be a lot of bait stealers out there in 2008!!! Wilson Reservoir has a 15 inch minimum length limit on walleye and you are going to need a good measuring board.

WHITE BASS - Fair. White bass numbers fell back slightly in 2007 from 2006 but there are certainly some nice whites out there! There are all sizes with some up into the 3 pound range - great white bass!!!! And all the whites were in excellent body condition. We continue to see small whites coming on so they are spawning successfully despite limited flows in the river. I am convinced that if we could get a couple of high river flow years that the white bass would respond well. Let's all pray for rain in April, May and June and hope to experience a good river run of white bass for a change!!! Wilson is currently number 17 amongst reservoirs in white bass density.

WHITE PERCH - Good. White perch numbers dropped for two years in a row but increased again this past year. Some anglers say there are lots of white perch and some

are having trouble catching them. It appears that we continue to have the perch under control and they are growing well. The size of the fish remains good and anglers continue to be pleased with the size and taste of the fillets. They were spawning right along with the walleye - in the same locations and about midway through and towards the end of the walleye spawn. Keep plenty of worms on hand for next summer and let's hope the white perch cooperate. Remember too, keep all you catch so that we can remove as many as we can to keep them growing fast. But remember too, they are an Aquatic Nuisance Specie (ANS) and now a Prohibited Specie which means they must be dead if you keep them in your possession. I know there are some striper anglers who are not happy with that law but it is the only way we can try to keep someone from taking live fish and stocking them in waters where we don't want them. We have new signs up around the lake announcing this regulation.

Not Wanted: Aquatic Nuisance Species in Kansas

Aquatic nuisance species are non-native species that threaten the ecological stability and economic viability of the water resources of Kansas. Once ANS are introduced, their control is very difficult if not impossible. There are several major pathways through which ANS are introduced, but most are the result of human activities both intentional and unintentional. To prevent the spread of nuisance species:

Empty bait buckets on dry land. Do not dump bait into the lake (see bait regulations).

Never move fish caught from one body of water to another. It is illegal.

Inspect equipment (boat, trailer, anchor, duck decoys, waders) and remove any visible organisms, vegetation, and mud.

Wash equipment with 140-degree water, a 10-percent chlorine and water solution, or a hot saltwater solution if you have been in zebra mussel infested waters.

Drain all water from your boat and equipment before leaving a water body. ANS such as zebra mussels can be unknowingly transported with lake water.

Do not release aquarium pets into or near a body of water or storm drain.

Remember, it is illegal to possess several ANS species alive Review the fishing regulation summary for more information.

WHITE PERCH

Found in Cheney and Wilson Reservoirs, the Ninnescah, Arkansas and Saline Rivers, Kingman State Fishing Lake, Hoover Pond in Kingman, Lake Afton in Sedgwick County, Sedgwick County Park Lakes, and Carey Park Pond in Hutchinson.

White perch have been associated with declines in both walleye and white bass populations.

Out-compete native fishes for food and space.

Hybridize with white bass.

EURASIAN WATERMILFOIL

Eurasian watermilfoil forms dense mats on the water's surface.

Reproduces by fragmentation, plant fragments can be transported by boaters.

Will shade out native vegetation and reduce oxygen levels during decomposition.

The Eurasian watermilfoil forms a dense canopy that hinders recreational activities.

Eurasian watermilfoil has recently been discovered in several new lakes. Review the fishing regulation summary for specific locations.

ZEBRA MUSSEL

Present in El Dorado Reservoir, Cheney Reservoir, Perry Reservoir and Winfield City Lake.

Filter vast quantities of water which alters the entire food web within a waterbody. Although this filtering action may clear up the water in some instances, the clear water zebra mussels leave behind will often lead to algal blooms that are harmful to people. The clear water can also allow UV rays to damage fish eggs laid during the spawn.

Can reach high densities causing problems to water intakes, docks, and boat motors. Nationwide expenditures to control zebra mussels in industrial plants alone are estimated at $310 million per year.

Have sharp shells that can cut the unprotected skin of humans or pets. Shoes or other protective clothing are recommended when wading in zebra mussel infested water.

All aquatic users need to do their part to not spread zebra mussels to other waters in Kansas. Follow control recommendations and tell others how to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.

ASIAN CARP

Includes bighead, silver, and black carp species.

Asian carp can be found in the Kansas, Wakarusa, Big Blue, and Missouri Rivers.

These fish are highly adaptive, prolific spawners, and directly compete with other fish for food and space resources.

Juvenile Asian carp resemble gizzard shad and thus can be mistakenly transported.

They pose physical danger to boaters because of the silver carp's leaping ability. Beware when out on the KS River near Kansas City.