Observations on the Life History of Channel Catfish, Ictalurus Punctatus (Rafinesque) in Utah Lake, Utah

The channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus (Rafinesque), was first introduced into Utah Lake in the summer of 1911, and has since been stocked in the lake on numerous occasions. It has only been in the last few years that the channel catfish has become an important game fish in Utah. As the value of the channel catfish, as a game fish, increased, it has become increasingly important to the state to maintain this species for present and future generations. This study was initiated in 1958 and completed in 19 60, and was financed by the Utah State Department of Fish and Game. Data on certain phases of the channel catfish life history were investigated to provide information to aid in management of this species. The following phases were studied: age and rate of growth; age composition of the population; reproduction success; food habits; movements; and extent of the fishing pressure.