WILDLIFE

CHAIR | PAT KESSEL

FISHING

The fish survey conducted by the DNR in the spring of 2017 has been published.

The report noted that the Bluegill numbers have “exploded,” showing a 686% increase (98/673) in the number of fish taken compared to the 2007 survey. The Largemouth Bass numbers increased 265% (64/170), and Northern Pike increased 208% (12/25), with a broader range of fish sizes from 11-43 inches. There was a significant increase in the Perch and Rock Bass population. The Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, and Pumpkinseed numbers were similar in size and numbers taken to the 2007 report. The report noted an abundance of forage species in the lake, with far more Shiner minnows present than in 2007. Growth rates were considered suitable for all species.

The DNR is planning to do a Walleye and Pike survey in the spring or fall of 2022 to understand better and manage their populations and determine if further stocking is needed.

The DNR encouraged landowners to reduce fertilizer and chemical treatments and discontinue the practice of clearing nearshore plant growth as they may be contributing to dissolved oxygen depletion and increased temperatures within the lake.

Long Lake continues to have the highest water quality and a solid and vibrant fishery. The full report link can be accessed from the LLA website, or you can download it at: https://longlakeassociation.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/SFR2018-262_740719_7.pdf

OUR LOONS

2021 was another strong year for the loon population on Long Lake. It was not uncommon to have 20+ loons on the lake during the summer. Long Lake continues to host the largest nesting population of loons in the Lower Peninsula.

Last summer, five active nesting sites resulted in 5 chicks that hatched and left the lake in the fall. We are looking forward to another strong nesting season and loon population in 2022.

Please remember to stay outside the buoy markers or at least 200 ft from the nesting sites

DUCKS, SWANS AND GEESE

Though cute and irresistible, these waterfowl play a key role in the life cycle of any parasite that causes “swimmer’s itch.”

By discouraging unnaturally large waterfowl populations in our lakes, the occurrence of this troublesome skin irritation can be reduced. (See Cercariae Cycle Diagram.)

As inhabitants of our lake community, these waterfowl feed on plants and other aquatic organisms. In turn, they eat the plants and remove a portion of the plants’ nutrients. When excreted, these nutrients support new plant growth. This is a natural cycle. However, when well-intentioned individuals feed waterfowl their numbers increase, and additional nutrients enter our lakes. This process, in turn, increases the swimmer’s itch problem.

FISH

The results from the DNR fish survey, which was completed in 2017, are expected to be published this spring. The completed document will be added to the LLA website when it is available.

Long Lake continues to boast some of the best walleye fishing in northern Michigan with many limits of catches reported in the spring, summer, and fall. Anglers also do well very well fishing for bass, perch, and bluegill on the lake.

NUISANCE WILDLIFE

As of late our riparian have been experiencing property damage by muskrats and beavers.  Below we have listed some links explaining damage prevention and control methods.  Please take a minute to read through this information before venturing out on your own to try an control the situation.