On October 24, 2005, the Kings River Fisheries Management Program started the collection of valuable data on trout in the Kings River. By using state-of-the-art radio transmitters that have been surgically implanted into several dozen trout in two separate phases and releases, they were able to discount the commonly held misconception that trout were being swept downstream. They found that the fish were actually maintaining their habitation quite well. Releases take place after the spring's high water conditions abate to track fish in more typical flow regimes.

When the fish are released into the river, each trout is equipped with a transmitter that has its own identification code. If anglers happen to catch these tagged fish, they are rewarded for returning the radio devices to KRCD. The transmitters use five different frequencies and are regularly monitored by KRCD environmental staff members using monitoring equipment. There are continuous monitoring telemetry stations located along the river to track upstream and downstream movements.

The program objectives include:

• Evaluating performance and applicability of alternative telemetry methods (e.g., radio and ultrasonic and mobile monitoring, etc.) within the river and select a preferred method for use in the pilot study;
• Calculating residence time of wild and hatchery produced adult trout after release into the river over a range of seasonal flow conditions;
• Mapping geographic distribution of adult trout within the river;
• Determining whether other aspects of the fisheries monitoring program should be modified to more effectively sample and monitor trout abundance using other fishery sampling techniques;
• Identifying habitat selection preferences within the river including the use of gravel and boulder habitat enhancement projects;
• Comparing movement of adult trout within the river system in response to variation in stream flows;
• Potential for existing weirs to act as barriers or obstacles to adult trout migration; and
• Assessing mortality sources of adult trout.

The Fisheries Management Program staff looks forward to collecting additional data over the next couple of years to reliably identify Rainbow Trout movement patterns. These patterns will help the program refine its practices. The Fisheries Management Program's Trout Tracking-Telemetry Study is part of the Districts continued commitment to environmental stewardship.

If you catch a trout that has an antenna (10" wire) and transmitter, please return the transmitter to KRCD for a $25 reward.