WALLEYE AND NORTHERN PIKE - BOOST OR BANE TO NORTHWEST FISHERIES

Introductions of nonnative walleye (Stizostedion vitreum) and northern pike (Esox lucius) have created popular recreational fisheries in man y Northwestern waters. Rising demand for expanded angling opportunitie s for these species, especially walleye, has been met with growing con cern about longterm risks associated with the introduction of a top pr edator. Proposed introductions are often controversial because of pote ntial prey depletions, reductions in salmonid populations, and long-ra nge movements of the species from the point of release. We urge a caut ious approach to future introductions of these species in the northwes tern United States and outline some approaches for evaluating risks an d benefits. Stricter risk assessment procedures for species introducti ons have been adopted by many states, but illegal introductions of bot h species are a continuing problem. Greater efforts are needed to educ ate the public about the risks of illegal transplants, and stronger st atutes are necessary to discourage this activity.