Several fish transportation units were examined and numerically rated for their ability to transport muskellunge and muskellunge-northern pike hybrids. Various life support systems including air blowers, bottom-draw aerators, surface agitators, and oxygen injection were installed on tanks of varying capacity, construction and locomotion. The factors used in establishing the ranking were loading density, initial cost and operation experience. Of the factors considered, loading density has the greatest significance in establishing the numerical rating. Insulated fibreglass construction tanks using bottom-draw aerators with oxygen injection received the highest rating. Recommended safe loading levels were established for two units currently in use by the Pennsylvania Fish Commission.
Catch and Release Muskie Fishing – Let Them Go – Let Them Grow