Carterville FRO biologists Colby Wrasse and Nate Caswell completed the annual fishery survey for Scott Air Force Base in May 2006.  This military base, located in southwestern Illinois, is home to two small impoundments that provide quality sport fishing for military personnel and civilian base employees. 

Wrasse and Caswell used D.C. electrofishing and measured water quality to assess the status of the Scott AFB fishery.  The larger impoundment was found to contain a healthy population of 1- to 2-pound largemouth bass, large sunfish, and some hefty channel catfish. 

Many anglers and other interested base employees came out to the lake to watch the electrofishing survey, ask questions, and voice concerns.  The input provided by those who actually use the fishery is a crucial component in determining how the fishery should be managed.  The event also gave Carterville FRO biologists and the Scott AFB natural resources manager a chance to informally discuss current issues and brainstorm on plans for the future. 

The data gathered from this survey will be used by Carterville FRO to make management recommendations regarding fish stocking, fishing regulations, and watershed manipulations. 

Carterville FRO has performed this service for Scott AFB for several years and this relationship has led to quality sport fishing that has been enjoyed by thousands of anglers.  With wise resource management, Scott AFB should continue to be a good place to wet a line for years to come.