Have you ever caught a tagged fish and wondered what to do with it?
If yes, below you will find answers to common questions regarding tagged fish and reporting. If not, consider the role you can play in assuring the fish you enjoy catching continue to thrive.
Why are fishes tagged?
Fish populations are studied by biologists and fisheries managers alike, and without this dedicated field of professionals, many of the sought-after fishes in Ohio would have unhealthy numbers. Tagging fish allows for estimates of abundance, behavior, and survival patterns.
Who is collecting this information?
In Ohio, the Department of Natural Resources, among other agencies, collect data on a variety of fish species in different locations. Independent researchers may also be collecting information.
What do tags look like?
There are a variety of tags; ones most commonly used are anchor tags, coded wire tags, passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags, and visible implant transponder (VIE) tags.
Anchor tags carry information about reporting, while the other types are mainly specific for researchers to identify (or track in the case of PIT tags).
What do I do if I catch a tagged fish?
Reporting tagged fish is easy and some researchers may even provide a cash reward.
Some tags may have contact information, such as a phone number or email address, and others may have a tracking number. In most cases, you are able to harvest the fish. But if you decide to catch-and-release, make sure to leave the tag attached.
To report fish that are studied by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, follow this link: http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/fishing/report-a-tagged-fish
Do tags hurt the fish?
Most common tags do not affect fish growth or survival.
More information on what species are currently being studied by ODNR can be found on their website: http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov
Next time you come across a tagged fish, please consider reporting!
Sources:
http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/stay-informed/online-articles-amp-features/your-wild-ohio-angler/post/report-tagged-saugeye-in-alum-creek
Pintor, L. M. (2017). Marking & Tagging of Fish & Invertebrates [PowerPoint slides]. Retrieved from OSU Carmen website.