Date: 12/30/09
Contact: Doug Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127 x 3500

WHERE THE URBAN FISH COME FROM

Have you ever wondered where the fish in the local ponds come from and what kinds of fish inhabit the ponds? The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) makes sure that those ponds are stocked on a regular basis, but the time of year determines the type of fish that are stocked. During the winter months, starting in November and continuing through March, rainbow trout, raised in one of NDOW state fish hatcheries, are released into the ponds of Lorenzi Park, Sunset Park, Floyd Lamb Park, and Boulder City pond approximately every two weeks on Tuesday.

According to NDOW angler education coordinator Ivy Santee, “It’s as regular as the postman, but things such as snow storms, equipment breakdowns and the dreaded flu bug can cause a delay in deliveries.”

It’s a different story in the warmer spring and summer months. Channel catfish are the species that is planted into the ponds, and weather and equipment problems are less likely. But the catfish are not raised in Nevada and instead are purchased from a private company and delivered once a month to our local waters starting in April and continuing through the summer until October.

Even though hundreds of pounds of fish are planted in the ponds each month, it’s not uncommon for the fish to have a mind of their own and turn their noses away from baits and lures used by avid fishermen who are anxious to bring home their limits of fish. Perseverance is the secret for catching this wily prey.

Santee added, “Just enjoy the opportunity to be able to catch fish in the driest state in the union!”

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a Federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.