Update On 2022 Walleye Spawn Released
The walleye trap netting and egg-taking operation has commenced on Fort Peck Reservoir once again.
However, it’s been a challenging and bumpy (literally) start to the season.
Compared to last year, lower reservoir elevations have caused us to relocate our operation further down the reservoir between Nelson and McGuire Creek.
High winds over the past week have prevented us from getting out on the water. In fact, our spawning barges and holding pens were pushed up onto shore during the ~60 mph gusts we experienced on Tuesday. These windy conditions have set us back a few days.
The one bright spot is water temperatures have been somewhat warm — 43 to 44 degrees while checking our trap nets today.
These temperatures have triggered a few walleye to start cruising the shorelines. As with the beginning of every walleye spawn, male walleye are typically more abundant. That pattern is holding true.
A majority of the walleye captured in the trap nets have been males, but we have captured a few green (not releasing eggs) females as well. We have yet to collect any walleye eggs since it’s early and water temperatures are relatively cool.
Unfortunately, the weather forecast looks bleak with cold temperatures, high winds, and possible snow accumulations.
I hate to say it, but this doesn’t bode well for walleye spawning activity for the upcoming week.
