Copton Creek Bull Trout Project, 1998

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Summary

The study took place within the Copton Creek drainage in Northwestern Alberta, Canada. Data on bull trout population status within Copton Creek and its tributaries were collected from August to October, 1998. Capture methods included the use of a fish enumeration trap, backpack electroshocking, angling, and radio telemetry. A total of 209 bull trout were sampled with an average fork length of 343mm (range 70 – 674mm). Other species captured included Arctic grayling, mountain whitefish, rainbow trout, and slimy sculpins. Timing of spawning movement was measured through the use of an enumeration trap and radio telemetry. It was concluded that bull trout enter Copton Creek in early to mid July and remain there until mid to late October. Critical spawning areas were identified within Caw, Grizzly, Beaverdam, and upper Copton Creeks, by the presence of young-of-the-year and by tracking adults through radio telemetry.

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