Eagle Lake

Largemouth Bass

Good

Population indices for Largemouth Bass suggest that the population is doing well. Almost all the population indices were better than last survey (2019). Bass in the sample ranged in length from 4.3 to 22.5 inches, with the largest weighing 5.6 pounds. Bass over six pounds have been collected in Eagle Lake. Catch rates have declined since 2011 when bass were captured at a rate of 106 fish per hour. The 2023 catch rate was 86 fish per hour which is higher than the management goal of 60 fish per hour. At this level of abundance Largemouth Bass should not become overabundant and stunted. The PSD of 56 suggests that the Largemouth Bass population is balanced and within the management goals. Of all the bass over 8 inches in the sample, 56% were of quality size (12 inches) or greater. Eleven percent of the stock were longer than 15 inches and 5% were longer than 18 inches. This indicate a high abundance of “quality size” bass (over 12 inches). The relative weight of the average Largemouth Bass indicates that bass have enough forage.

Bluegill

Good

34 Bluegill were caught in the 2023 sample. These numbers are too low to infer any population structure and most likely have to do with water levels and the steep-sided, deep shorelines of Eagle Lake. In the Bluegill sample 36% of the stock (fish three inches or greater) were longer than six inches. Bluegill up to 6.9 inches were captured. Bluegill averaged 5.5 inches in length. Average relative weights were in the “good” range.

Redear Sunfish

Good

Only 5 Redear Sunfish were caught in the 2023 sample. These numbers are too low to infer any population structure and most likely have to do with water levels and the steep-sided, deep shorelines of Eagle Lake. Redear measured up to 9.7 inches. Redear Sunfish averaged 7.0 inches in length. Average relative weights were in the “good” range.