1999 Warmwater Fish Survey of Harts Lake, Pierce County

The warmwater fish population of Harts Lake was sampled May 24-25, 1999. A total of eight species of fish were encountered. Harts Lake is currently managed as a mixedâ€"species lake, receiving putâ€"andâ€"take trout plants, as well as channel catfish plants. The warmwater fish survey showed the fish population to be in balance, with above average growth for all species, except black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus). The population survey needs to be completed with an angler creel survey to determine angler harvest and pressure, especially of channel catfish. The continued planting of channel catfish is supported, although more work is needed to fine tune stocking numbers and to balance that with annual harvest and mortality.