The Currane, Co. Kerry, Sea Trout Fishery, 1980-1986

Abstract

An updated account of the unique Waterville sea trout stock is provided. The latest genetic work is reviewed and the vulnerability of these fish to introgression by other strains of trout is considered. Waterville sea trout are relatively long lived and the consequences of this fact are documented with data supplied by anglers over a period of six years. On average, Waterville sea trout are the largest in Ireland although bag sizes in the fishery are small. Alterations in the stock are monitored over seven years from 1980 using angler caught material. Back-calculations of lengths at various ages are supplied together with information on weight: length relationships. condition factors and sex ratios. The main influence on the age structure of the stock was the recruitment of post-smolt annually. Freshwater productivity could be explained by the influence of length of growing season but regulating factors in the saline environment were not identified. There was some agreement between indicators of recruitment in the Waterville and Burrishoole (Co. Mayo) fisheries. The relationship between B type increment - a crucial element of growth bringing parr to migratory dimensions - and growing season is investigated and various methods of expressing the B increment in quantitative terms are examined.