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<br />( <br /> <br />o <br />o <br />I) <br />~ <br />~ <br />N <br /> <br />( <br /> <br />~ <br /> <br />This study intends to look for changes in angler use and catch rates throughout <br />the period of experimental flows released for benefit and study of the squawfish. <br />Decreases in angler use may indicate a negative impact on the fishery; and, <br />likewise, increases will indicate no impact or a positive impact on the fishery. <br />Changes in catch rates may give insight on why'changes in angler use occur. <br />Additionally, angler surveys can be examined with trout population study results <br />to determine the overall effect of flows on the fishery. <br /> <br />Objectives: <br />Determine the relationship between angler use and catch rates and flow <br />releases from Navajo Dam. <br /> <br />Methods: <br />The study area will be that portion of the San Juan River beginning at the <br />outflow of'Navajo Dam and extending downstream to the U. S. Highway 64 bridge at <br />Blanco, New Mexico. <br /> <br />Standardized pressure count and creel census forms similar to those previously <br />used by the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will be used (see attached) . <br />Data analysis will be consistent with that of previous Federal Aid studies so <br />that a comparison can be made with previous studies. Pressure counts will be <br />taken on at least two weekend days and four weekdays per month on specified <br />reaches of the river. Angler interviews to obtain catch data will be taken one <br />day per week for 52 weeks. <br /> <br />A summary of the results will be submitted in December following the research <br />period. Over the seven-year study period, trends in angling pressure and catch <br />rates will be evaluated in relation to various flows. <br /> <br />A23 <br />