Shorthead Redhorse - Management Recommendations

Management Recommendations

In order to manage Shorthead Redhorse effectively, a count needs to be made for an estimated population size. First, a study needs to be conducted to see if electroshocking during the spawning season will have a negative effect on the rate of successful reproduction. If there is no negative effects the proceeding management plan should be conducted. Counting should be done during the spawning season when Shorthead Redhorse are in smaller tributaries preparing to reproduce. Locate spawning areas where sampling can be done. Electroshock backpacks should be used for smaller streams and electroshock boats should be used for smaller rivers to collect and count population densities in known spawning areas. To assess population size, conduct an angler survey in surrounding areas where Shorthead Redhorse have not been documented. Electroshocking in non-previously populated streams that are connected to rivers or streams inhabited by the Shorthead Redhorse will allow the population range to be documented. These procedures should be done on a year-to-year basis if there is no negative effect of electroshocking, and if there is, allow for one to two years in between each census. In addition to conducting a census to acquire population range and density, certain areas should be protected. Access to spawning areas should be blocked just after the spawning season. This will give the eggs time to hatch and grow, and ensure a new generation of Shorthead Redhorse survival. Spawning areas can be open to anglers during the spawning season. This is because Shorthead Redhorse are the most abundant sucker, so wide ranging and few anglers are interested in fishing for them, their population will not be diminished by angling during their spawning season.