The #SundayFishSketch is a hashtag that encourages like-minded individuals to incorporate art and fish into their weekly lives. Not only is it a great community to join for beginning sketchers, but it also acts as reminder to even the most seasoned of artists to continue practicing their craft. Many of the #SundayFishSketch themes are fun…
Category: The Fisheries Blog
How conserving biodiversity may help prevent the next pandemic
By: Dana Sackett, PhD Given the unprecedented times we are in and that most with an interest in fish biology also have an interest in ecology and nature, I decided to take some liberties in this week’s The Fisheries Blog article. So please bear with me while I diverge from our typical fisheries-centered topics and…
A Beginner’s Guide to Blue Lining
Here’s a riddle: What has rivers without water? Forests without trees? Roads without cars? All maps are treasure maps when you’re in pursuit of wild and native sportfish. Many anglers take great satisfaction in leafing through a gazetteer, and tracing their finger over the “blue lines” (rivers and streams) until they reach an access point,…
World Record Paddlefish: Conspiracies, Genetics, and Advances in Snagging Technology
Guest Author: Jason Schooley, Senior Fisheries Biologist, Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation The largest American Paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) reported in the scientific literature is attributed to R. D. Vanderbeck, who took the fish by spear in Lake Okoboji, Iowa, in February 1916 (Nichols 1916). The fish’s length of 7’ 1” and girth of 45.5” were…
A Glimpse at the Faces Behind Scientific Illustrations
The fields of art and the sciences are intimately combined. The detailed illustrations by artists and scientists, that back up years worth of scientific research describing new species, anatomy and behavior, complex processes, and new technologies, make a huge impact on the transfer of knowledge and understanding of these systems to interested parties. As an…
Summer Craft Idea: Looky Buckets!
cover photo by Isaac Szabo
Machine learning for fishes
Developments in technology have been a game changer for wildlife and fisheries research, conservation, and management. Specifically, advances in the utility and accessibility of unmanned aerial systems (drones) have made great strides in data collection.
O-fish-al Art Recap: High Art Edition
A long time ago, in the far off land of social media, the Getty Museum issued a challenge to the countless isolated people of the world. Their summons was simple, “re-create your favorite art using objects and people lying around your home.” This activity was inspired by the instagram account ‘Between Art and Quarantine’ (@tussenkunstenquarantaine)…
Sick fish: social distancing may help them too
By: Dana Sackett, PhD Here at The Fisheries Blog our current situation begs the questions: can fish be infected with viruses too? The answer is a resounding yes. But before we get into the details, let’s first describe what a virus is and how it is different from other pathogens (things that cause disease), such…
Broadcast Spawning: Creating a new generation of anglers across the airwaves
Audio broadcasts, be it radio or podcasts, are a great means for communicating insider tips about fishing and fisheries science to anglers.
Big Fish Name Generator
If you’re anything like me, you have probably gained close to 10 pounds over the last month, which means it’s time to own up to your new nickname. With our new name generator, let your birthday decide what your friends should call you as they admire your new trophy fish bod. These are all real…
How can you help migratory fish? Think global, act local.
Together we can make sure that stories of amazing migratory freshwater species are being told, through newspapers, social media and television. Together we can make sure that policymakers see the urgency AND the potential of all the positive energy of people who are ready to restore.
O-fish-al Art Recap
With long days in isolation that seem to blend together, there is no better time than now to join the #SundayFishSketch. If you are hesitant to draw and post fishes on Twitter because of inexperience or self consciousness, rest assured that our community is very supportive. Also, be sure to check out the ‘How to…
“These are a few of my favorite things” while quarantined
By: Dr. Dana Sackett As we all face a global pandemic together, we can each do our part in these uncertain times by following the guidance of our amazing scientists at the World Health Organization and Center for Disease Control (I strongly encourage everyone to read over their guidelines). Their guidance includes telling everyone that…
Branding: painful burn or helpful marketing skill?
“Learn how to market yourself.” Millennials have been beaten over the head with this order since a fairly young age. In a competitive world, knowing what makes you competitive is just as important as being competitive. Being smart, talented, or accomplished may not be worth anything if the gatekeepers never notice. Some argue that having…
