PIERRE — South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks fisheries staff members have begun their annual fall lake sampling across the state.

"Beginning in late summer and into early fall, our fisheries crews begin their annual lake sampling efforts across the state," explained Jake Davis, fisheries program administrator. "This is a very large undertaking which provides critical data for how we develop lake management plans."

This time of year provides fisheries staff the best possible data as spawning is complete, the primary growing season is wrapping up, as well as the majority of the angler harvest.

"The three most important elements in fisheries management are recruitment, growth and mortality," Davis said. "We want to see new fish coming into a system, those fish growing to desirable sizes, and monitor the mortality of the population through both angling efforts and natural mortality."

These sampling efforts also give staff an opportunity to gather additional information on a body of water.

"One of the additional sampling measures we conduct is sampling for aquatic invasive species," Davis continued. "For example, as part of routine sampling on North Rush Lake, two adult zebra mussels were found at two separate locations. We now consider this waterbody positive for zebra mussels.

The data gathered through all of these sampling efforts is essential as staff development management plans, stocking requests, and additional surveys for the coming season.

"We are fortunate to have some truly incredible fisheries across the state," Davis concluded. "Our goal is to continue to ensure these angling opportunities are available both for our current anglers and future generations of anglers, as well."

Additional information regarding fishing in South Dakota can be found at gfp.sd.gov/fish/.