Photos: WDFW stocks Mayfield Lake with 1200 baby tiger muskies

[Anonymous]

WDFW and Chapter #57 and another muskie club were on hand on May 21, 2010 to hand stock Lake Mayfield in Lewis County. It was an honor to help. The WDFW has always supported the Tiger Muskie Program and each year the Meseberg Hatchery works hard to grow these fish. Chapter #57 donated $1,000.00 in forage this year and it was great to see them so well fed... and fast!
The little torpedoes were lightening quick and measuring and “wanding” or scanning (each fish is carrying its own electronic tag) was a challenge, but thrilling, as you can tell by my expression, lol.
Special thanks to Bruce Bolding, the new Statewide Warmwater Coordinator, Jim Burn; WDFW, Mike Erickson; Hatchery Program and the legendary Jack Tipping, who was the WDFW biologist who planted the 1st Tigers in Mayfield 22 years ago.
Great picture of Jack with a net of little tigers.
It was a great day on the water and the message was: “Welcome to your new home – now go hide!

[Anonymous]

Kup,

Great photo's! Thanks to you and Jack for helping out with that stocking project...I know how much you both care about our "Tigers". I would also like to extend a big thanks for the employees of the WDFW for doing such a great job with the "Tiger Muskie" program within the State of Washington. Helping out with stocking is just one of the many aspects of Muskies, Inc. when it come to areas of service, research, fellowship, education, and partnerships. Muskies, Inc. has always had close relationships with WDFW/DNR officials in our local communities. From manpower to financial help (Hugh C. Becker Foundation etc)..., M.I. Has been there, whenever we are needed.

Today the hybrid "tiger" has been introduced into many states. Part of this enthusiasm for stocking these tigers is there "predator" value. By introducing muskies into waters over-populated with northern pike minnow, suckers, and other rough fish, fisheries managers can control the rough fish populations, thus reducing the biomass and allowing other species, including the muskies, to grow and maintain a more appropriate natural balance...*as a second bonus this also provides a true "trophy" fishery for all! a win/win situation for everyone!

One of the most effective tools a fisheries manager has is "stocking" and we are glad that the NW TIGER PAC had the chance to be part of it...once again, thanks to all of those who helped out...it is appreciated by many of us out here!

[Lucius]

Great photos KUP. Where are acrylic nails from last year?

It is definitely nice to know that our Tiger Muskie fishery program is alive and well especially with all the cut backs that the WDFW has had to do with the economic times. I know Bruce Bolding and the rest of the Warmwater guys will do whatever they can to make sure the fishery stays that way for a long time. Good job KUP and thanks for donating some of your vacation to help out....even in a thick dark jacket on a sunny day!!

[Anonymous]

Good one!, Buddy. I donated the acrylic to Brett's Cudaman Custom Lures so he could make eyes for his lures.
And yes, hubby had just bought me a nice new Self-Inflatable fishing vest, but it was not with me as I did not know I would have the honor of being in the boat. WDFW let me borrow the only one left- attached inside a winter parka. But no matter, I would have jumped into a snowmobile suit in order to participate in this hands-on project.

[Rosann G]

Nice pics Jani. Looks like you had fun helping with the baby tigers.

[Lucius]

Real funny, Buddy. I donated the acrylic to Brett's Cudaman Custom Lures so he could make eyes for his lures.
And yes, hubby had just bought me a nice new Self-Inflatable fishing vest, but it was not with me as I did not know I would have the honor of being in the boat. WDFW let me borrow the only one left- attached inside a winter parka. But no matter, I would have jumped into a snowmobile suit in order to participate in this hands-on project.

So sorry, I couldn't resist!! Great job though Kup!! In about 4 years or so, they will be pushing 40" or so!!