Friday, June 3, 2016

Stocking Turquoise Lake

The 5625(ish) Rainbow Trout that were loaded into the hatchery truck were destined for nearby Turquoise Lake. Once the truck is loaded the stocking itself is a one-person job, but we tagged along to help.
On the Road.
The lake has been lowered in order to catch the snow melt that is on the way. So Joe had to back several hundred feet down a long boat ramp. I helped him get into position at the bottom.
Getting Close. 
Once in position you might think that there is an elaborate process to gently introduce the fish into their new environment. Nope!  Kick the cap off of the big pipe.
Uncapping.
And pull the plug on tank #1.
Tank #1 Going In.
What a Ride!
It takes about 60 seconds for a tank of fish to empty into the lake. On to tank #2.
Tank #2
In the Lake
With their sudden entry into the water we expected to see a casualty or two. But aside from a few confused fish that beached themselves in the excitement all seemed fine. Teri was in charge of helping those few back into the water.
Home Sweet Home!
Our final tasks were to check the water temperature (46 degrees) and get the truck back up the ramp.
Checking the Temperature.
All Finished.
The scenery on our drive back to the hatchery wasn't too shabby!
Mount Massive
Mark

5 comments:

  1. That's quite a fish story. Is this a public fishing area? Will the water temp stay that cold all summer? I've watched fish being unloaded in several places over the years... always find it interesting.

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    1. Yes, this is a popular public fishing lake. I expect that the water might warm up some, but the snowmelt will continue into July and it starts to cool off again here in mid-August, so I think it stays pretty cool! The well water here is a constant 42 degrees, so that gives an idea of the average ground temperature. Brrrr!!

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  2. Very interesting job. I have seen them load trucks but never the unload. Were the fish shouting wheeeee.
    Virginia

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  3. I have seen stocking many times and in a few different types of release. It always amazes me that the fish do just fine. The mountains look great

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