GREENVILLE NEW CITY LAKE STATUS REPORT SUMMARY

LARGEMOUTH BASS: The largemouth bass population appears to be improving. The CPUE has increased to 52 per hour in this survey and is very close to the goal of 68. The bass collected in the 2004 survey show a good size distribution. Fish are present in all size classes and the number of smaller fish appears to be increasing. This suggests that natural reproduction and/or recruitment are improving. The recent stockings of bass by the city of Greenville is also a likely factor in the improvement of the bass population.

BLUEGILL: The 2004 survey shows a big increase in bluegill numbers (CPUE of 753) over the previous surveys. With these higher numbers, it a appears the size quality and condition of the fish has decreased. Although, there are still fish reaching 7 inches and the average relative weight (Wr) is well within our goal range. Overall the bluegill population is still pretty good for a lake of this size with gizzard shad and carp present. Increased predation from an improving bass population should help the bluegill quality in the future.

WHITE CRAPPIE: The number of white crappie collected was down in this survey and black crappie were collected in higher numbers. Therefore, black crappie data is also presented in table form in this report. The white crappie collected look good and were reaching very desirable sizes (RSD>11 of 18). The black crappie collected were smaller (RSD<9 of 87). Overall, this seems like a good situation for the crappie population with quality sized white crappie and new year classes of black crappie that should grow to quality size in the coming years.

CHANNEL CATFISH: A very good channel catfish population exists in this lake. 57 channel catfish were collected between 13 and 27 inches with an average length of 17.7 inches. The condition of the fish was good with an average relative weight (Wr) of 96.

COMMON CARP: The carp population remains large. 116 were collected with a range of 11 to 32 inches and an average of 17.2 inches. The high numbers of carp are likely a negative influence on the sport fish populations and a likely reason for the history of poor reproduction/recruitment of bass.

The 2004 survey shows some positive signs of improvement of the overall fishery of this lake. Most notable is the increase in bass numbers. This is likely due to some recent supplemental bass stocking by the city. The yellow bass numbers have also dropped dramatically from previous years (only 16 collected in 2004). This may allow better reproduction and recruitment of bass. If the yellow bass numbers stay low and the city continues some supplemental bass stocking the bass population will continue to improve. The lake should also offer good angling opportunities for bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. The hybrid striped bass population will hopefully continue to establish itself and offer an additional angling opportunity. Annual stocking will continue if fish are available from the state hatchery. Surveys will be conducted every other year if time and personnel permit.