Approximately 70 adult salmon returned to the hatchery this year, no big run but just in dribs and drabs. The fish were on average a bit smaller than previous however there were a few good ones amongst them. Stripping took place over a number of days as unlike in previous years only a few became ready at any one time. This meant that crews were on hand more often for less fish this year. Also the number of eggs per fish appeared to be less than previous years with one estimation of only around 2,000 per hen. A big thanks to all who were involved.
From the hen fish, around 80,000 eggs were retrieved and with some minor losses due to infertility etc, we have nearly 70,000 under incubation. This is many less than previous years but has allowed us to keep our Rangitata programme alive and also send 5,000 eggs to 3 Springs on the Opihi, and 10,000 to RSL spawning race at Arundel.
Once again, Robert and Rayleen Clark and their teams have done a sterling job with egg picking.
From the hen fish, around 80,000 eggs were retrieved and with some minor losses due to infertility etc, we have nearly 70,000 under incubation. This is many less than previous years but has allowed us to keep our Rangitata programme alive and also send 5,000 eggs to 3 Springs on the Opihi, and 10,000 to RSL spawning race at Arundel.
Once again, Robert and Rayleen Clark and their teams have done a sterling job with egg picking.
 Can you see the fish? Adult in front of trap. |  The Boss! |