Lake Arrowhead Biologist Report 2022
On April 26, 2022 department biologists and technicians conducted spring sampling using boat electrofishing gear. Four permanent sites are sampled every 3-5 years. Our sites cover a majority of the shoreline habitat circumnavigating the lake. In total, 441 fish were collected during the sample, representing 6 gamefish species (Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Bluegill Sunfish, Redear Sunfish, Channel Catfish, and Yellow Perch).
Largemouth Bass
The Largemouth population is incredibly consistent at Lake Arrowhead. A total of 303 bass were netted at a catch rate of 311.7 fish per hour. This was the third highest catch rate going back to 1999. Their sizes ranged from 3-19″ in length with a majority of the catchable sized bass measuring 7-15″ inches in length. However, there are quite a few quality sized bass patrolling the shallows. 87% of the bass captured are considered adults or stock sized fish (>8”), within that group 33.2% are considered quality sized largemouth (>12”) and 6% were >15″. The 2022 sample didn’t contain quite as high of a catch rate of quality bass compared to previous samples. This year’s sample of 90 fish per hour falls just below the long term average. Regardless, anglers should expect high catch rates.
Sunfish
The sunfish population looks very good and is considered balanced. The two dominant species are Bluegill Sunfish and Redear Sunfish. The catch rates are strong, we captured 88 per hour and 98 per hour respectively. Anglers interested in harvesting fish for the frying pan should target the sunfish at Lake Arrowhead. Bluegill average length = 6 inches / Redear average length = 8.5 inches. Try casting near our fish habitat structures scattered throughout the lake. A map of the fish habitat structures is located under the “Fishing” tab.
Channel Catfish
Advanced fingerling catfish are stocked each fall to enhance recreational angling. Anglers interested in targeting cats should give lake arrowhead a try. The population is balanced and the catfish grow well. The largest in our sample measured 26 inches in length.
Yellow Perch
An uncommon species for the valley, the yellow perch provide a nice change of pace for any angler that visits the lake. The catch rate of perch was 37 fish per hour with an average length of 8 inches. Anglers interested in harvesting fish should give perch a try.
