Req 7 — Choose a Fish Study Activity
7.
Do ONE of the following:
Requirement 7 puts you directly into the world of fisheries science — actual techniques used by professional biologists to study fish populations. Choose the one that fits your location and interests:
- Req 7a — Fish Aging from Scales: Read scale samples to determine the age of five fish species, or identify age classes in a lake population. Requires fish and a hand lens or microscope — often available at a local hatchery or through your counselor.
- Req 7b — Creel Census: Interview anglers at a boat launch or fishing area to estimate catch-per-unit-effort for a lake. A real field data collection method used by state fisheries agencies.
- Req 7c — Fish Stomach Contents: Examine the stomach contents of three fish and record what they’ve been eating — no fishing required.
- Req 7d — Freshwater Aquarium: Build a native-species freshwater aquarium with plants and animals. Observe for 60 days and discuss life cycles, food chains, and management needs. The most time-intensive option but deeply educational.
How to Choose
Choosing Your Fish Study Activity
Consider these factors
- Access to fish: 7a and 7c require access to actual fish (hatchery, caught, or donated). 7b requires a public fishing area with anglers present. 7d requires collecting native aquatic species.
- Equipment: 7a may require a hand lens or low-power microscope. 7b requires only a clipboard and pencil. 7c requires dissection tools. 7d requires an aquarium and setup.
- Time: 7d requires 60 days of observation. 7a, 7b, and 7c can be completed in a day or two.
- Availability of help: Your counselor may have connections to a state hatchery (useful for 7a and 7c) or know good locations for a creel census (7b).
Select your option and head to that page for detailed guidance.