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…
Repeat spawner series: Fun Fish Festivals
Though celebrations and typical summer activities, such as outdoor festivals, may look different this year, we hope you enjoy this “repeat spawner” post – a virtual visit to some fun fish festivals…
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.
Inland fisheries are a key ingredient to reaching Sustainable Development Goals
Though they are not explicitly mentioned, inland fisheries make substantial contributions towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly No Poverty (SDG 1), Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12) and Life on Land (SDG 15).
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…
Who is Louella Cable?
Guest blogger Ben Ikenson illuminates a piece of fisheries professional trivia and an important life’s work…
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…
