2025 Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference

AUTHORS: Caleb C. Schnitzler, Iowa Department of Natural Resources; Decorah Fisheries Management Office

ABSTRACT: Abstract: Brook Trout Salvelinus fontinalis are the only native salmonid to Iowa, and substantial effort has been directed toward protecting those populations. Culture of the Brook Trout from South Pine Creek, the only wild population in Iowa, began in 1996 and continued annually to restore additional populations. A more recent genetic evaluations confirmed that the South Pine Creek strain was unique and suitable for use as a brood source. The evaluations also identified five streams that had non-native Brook Trout ancestries. Of these, one population of domestic hatchery Brook Trout was identified and selected to be removed using electrofishing. Naturalized Brown Trout Salmo trutta are another threat to wild Iowa Brook Trout, with populations established in most quality coldwater streams. Two streams with barriers to prevent Brown Trout recolonization were selected for Brown Trout removal. The effectiveness of trout removal via stream electrofishing is reviewed and the use of fish culture to improve native Brook Trout restoration efforts is also discussed.