McCullom Lake

Black Crappie

Poor

Black Crappie were not captured in this sample. Species specific die-offs have occurred twice in the last 8 years (2014 and 2007). This most recent die-off occurred in late September of 2014 when about 50 dead Black Crappie were documented at three locations around the lake.

Largemouth Bass

Fair

Two harsh winters (2010-11 and 2013-14) in the last four years have taken their toll on the bass population in this lake. Largemouth Bass catch rates have declined since 2004. A couple of nice bass weighing close to three pounds were captured in the 2014 survey. Adult bass have an abundant food supply as yellow perch and yellow bass have exploded.

Channel Catfish

Fair

No Channel Catfish were captured during this survey. Channel Catfish over 20 inches have been caught in previous surveys. About 1,600 Channel Catfish are stocked into McCullom Lake annually.

Northern Pike

Good

Northern Pike were captured at a rate of 8.5 fish per net night in 2018. This survey did have one of the highest catch rates in recent surveys despite pike stocking being halted in 2015. The pike ranged in length from 16.2 to 32.0 inches long. The heaviest fish, a female with eggs, weighed 5.8 pounds. Unfortunately, IDNR is no longer raising and stocking Northern Pike. Monitoring will continue to determine if a natural reproduction can sustain a pike fishery at McCollum Lake.

Bluegill

Fair

Bluegill abundance was quite low, though this number is usually variable. The Bluegill average length was 4.6 inches.

Yellow Perch

Excellent

Yellow bass were extremely abundant during the 2014 survey. This species can become so overabundant they develop into a stunted population, as well as compete with young of year largemouth bass.

Yellow Bass

Excellent

Yellow perch were extremely abundant during the 2014 survey. This species can become so overabundant they develop into a stunted population, as well as compete with young of year largemouth bass.