Survey Results Highlight Fish Population Trends in Local Lakes
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recently completed comprehensive fisheries surveys on Long Lake and Bullhead Lake to evaluate fish populations and guide future management decisions. The surveys used fyke netting and electrofishing to measure fish abundance, growth, and size structure.
Jason Breeggemann, Senior Fisheries Biologist, presented results at the MCLA Meeting on February 26, 2026.
Long Lake
The 2025 survey found healthy northern pike and panfish populations in Long Lake. Biologists collected 3,396 fish from 13 species during netting surveys and 296 fish from 10 species during electrofishing.
Key findings include:
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Northern Pike: Moderate–high abundance with an average size of 23.6 inches and fish up to 35 inches. Strong evidence suggests the population is being sustained by natural reproduction.
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Black Crappie: Very abundant (96th percentile statewide), though most fish top out around 9–10 inches.
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Bluegill: Moderate–high density with good growth rates and size structure.
Managers will continue monitoring natural pike reproduction and adjusting panfish regulations to maintain a balanced fish community.
Bullhead Lake
Bullhead Lake showed a different population structure, with very high numbers of largemouth bass and relatively fewer panfish.
Surveys captured 283 fish representing nine species during netting and 348 fish representing five species during electrofishing.
Key findings include:
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Northern Pike: Moderate population dominated by older fish, suggesting limited recruitment of young pike.
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Walleye: Low abundance, though survival from 2023 stocking efforts appears promising.
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Largemouth Bass: Extremely abundant (99th percentile statewide) but slow-growing due to overcrowding.
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Bluegill: Low–moderate abundance with good growth potential but few large individuals.
Managers recommend removing the minimum size limit for largemouth bass to reduce overcrowding and improve growth. Continued walleye stocking and monitoring of the pike population are also planned.
