Bostwick Lake Fishing Committee Meeting - 7/29/24

Attached is the information about a fishing meeting from Henry Betten.

Meeting Notes:

Overview: Jason Broekstra from PLM provided an in-depth overview of the current state of Bostwick Lake. He distributed several copies of the Lake Management Plan Update from 2021 and discussed various topics, including the chemicals used to combat invasive species, specifically Starry Stonewort.

Key Points:

• Komeen Descend: Jason introduced Komeen Descend, a chelated copper algicide known for its effectiveness in controlling a wide range of algae. He highlighted its revolutionary micro-crystal technology. More information can be found here.

• Water Quality: Recent tests on Bostwick Lake showed very positive results. The next plant survey is scheduled for late August or September.

• Fish Survey: Jason recommended conducting a fish survey before any fish stocking. This approach was widely agreed upon by the attendees. Jason will contact Doug, a potential surveyor, and provide cost estimates, which are roughly between $3K-$5K.

Discussion Points:

• Weed Control: Henry paused the meeting to discuss weed control and ensure everyone was aligned with the data from the fishing tournaments. As the "Tournament Director" in the FishDonkey app, he can access all recorded fish data, which he shared during the meeting.

• Fishing Observations: Outside of the tournaments, there has been an increase in channel catfish catches, but a noticeable decline in bluegill and bass around the docks. While no one has reported excessive fish harvesting, there has been an increase in fishermen until the recent drought.

Financial Update: Henry presented the fishing ledger from various tournaments and wrote a check to the Bostwick Lake Association for the proceeds to date:

Note: Funds from this year's annual tournament will be available in October, with an expected additional $500. Total funds, including $2K from the association, are just short of $6K.

John Wangler indicated that the fishing committee's bank account has been added, and these funds will be transferred there. We are exploring Zeffy as a promising donation platform and will test it.

Next Steps: An estimate for the fish survey will be prepared and presented to me. I will compile a report covering:

• Fish Survey

• Fish Stocking

• Fish Habitat

AI Analysis:

Henry also ran our discussion topics through AI, and ChatGPT provided the following insights (unaltered by me):

Analysis of Poor Fishing in a 200-Acre Lake in Mid-Michigan

1. Impact of No Ice Cover Last Winter:

• Water Temperature: Without ice, the lake may experience higher temperatures earlier in the year, affecting fish metabolism and spawning cycles. Warmer waters can also decrease oxygen levels, stressing fish populations.

• Algal Blooms: Increased sunlight and warmth can promote algal blooms, which can alter the lake’s ecosystem. Certain algae can outcompete native species and lead to oxygen depletion as they decompose, further stressing fish.

2. Invasion of Starry Stonewort:

• Habitat Alteration: Starry stonewort forms dense mats on the lakebed, which can outcompete native vegetation and reduce habitat diversity for fish and other aquatic organisms.

• Spawning Interference: Dense mats can disrupt spawning habitats for fish species that rely on open, sandy, or gravelly areas. This can lead to reduced reproduction rates and affect fish populations.

• Water Quality Impact: The decomposition of starry stonewort can deplete oxygen levels, further stressing fish and potentially leading to fish kills.

3. Increase in Channel Catfish Catches:

• Predation and Competition: Channel catfish are opportunistic feeders and can outcompete other species for food. Their increased presence could be a result of reduced competition or changes in the food web due to the impacts mentioned above.

• Resilience to Environmental Changes: Channel catfish are more tolerant of low oxygen levels and poor water quality, which may explain their relative success in the changing lake conditions.

4. Possible Solutions and Management Strategies:

• Control of Starry Stonewort: Implementing mechanical removal or chemical treatments to manage starry stonewort can help restore native vegetation and improve fish habitats.

• Water Quality Monitoring: Regular monitoring of water quality, including temperature, oxygen levels, and algal populations, can help identify issues early and guide management actions.

• Fish Population Management: Stocking native fish species and controlling catfish populations might help balance the ecosystem. Enhancing spawning habitats and protecting native species can also be beneficial.

• Community and Stakeholder Involvement: Engaging local stakeholders, including anglers and residents, in conservation efforts can provide valuable support and ensure sustainable lake management practices.

In conclusion, the poor fishing in your lake is likely due to a combination of factors, including the lack of winter ice cover, the invasion of starry stonewort, and changes in fish population dynamics. Addressing these issues through targeted management strategies can help restore the lake’s ecosystem and improve fishing conditions.