Lake Sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens, Movements in Rainy Lake, Minnesota and Ontario

Authors

  • W. Eugene Adams Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota 57007
  • Larry W. Kallemeyn U.S. Geological Survey, 3131 Hwy 53, International Falls, Minnesota, 56649
  • David W. Willis Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota 57007

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v120i1.249

Keywords:

Lake Sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens, biotelemetry, Rainy Lake, Ontario, Minnesota

Abstract

Rainy Lake, Minnesota-Ontario, contains a native population of Lake Sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) that has gone largely unstudied. The objective of this descriptive study was to summarize generalized Lake Sturgeon movement patterns through the use of biotelemetry. Telemetry data reinforced the high utilization of the Squirrel Falls geographic location by Lake Sturgeon, with 37% of the re-locations occurring in that area. Other spring aggregations occurred in areas associated with Kettle Falls, the Pipestone River, and the Rat River, which could indicate spawning activity. Movement of Lake Sturgeon between the Seine River and the South Arm of Rainy Lake indicates the likelihood of one integrated population on the east end of the South Arm. The lack of re-locations in the Seine River during the months of September and October may have been due to Lake Sturgeon moving into deeper water areas of the Seine River and out of the range of radio telemetry gear or simply moving back into the South Arm. Due to the movements between Minnesota and Ontario, coordination of management efforts among provincial, state, and federal agencies will be important.

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