The Mississippi River is a beautiful, majestic site that exists in many different states. It’s not just a tourist attraction, however; it’s home to a diverse population of fish and other aquatic creatures. In this article, we will explore what kind of fish are present in the Mississippi River.
One of the most popular fish to call Mississippi River home is the Flathead Catfish, which grows up to seven feet in length and can weigh up to fifty-five pounds. The Flathead Catfish are mostly brown and green, with white bellies and black spots along their backs. Not only are they one of the most popular freshwater fish to catch in the river, but they are also a tasty meal for many anglers.
The Largemouth Bass, a favorite amongst fishermen, can also be found in the Mississippi River. The Largemouth Bass grows up to two feet in length and can be identified by its olive or brown coloring with dark blotches along its sides.
Those who traverse the Mississippi River may also encounter the Smallmouth Bass, which can usually be identified by its yellowish-brown color and black-streaked sides. The Smallmouth Bass is not as large as the Largemouth Bass, usually measuring less than a foot in length, but they still make great sport in the waters of the river.
In addition to Flathead Catfish, Largemouth Bass, and Smallmouth Bass, there are a variety of other fish in the Mississippi River, such as the Black Crappie, the Black Bullhead, the Northern Channel Catfish, the Blue Catfish, and the Longear Sunfish. Each of these fish serves a unique purpose in the ecosystem of the river, such as helping to control the populations of other fish and providing a source of food for local wildlife.
The aquatic life in the Mississippi River is also supplemented by a variety of plants, such as Cattails, Duckweed, and Spatterdock. These plants provide habitat and food for the fish, as well as protection from predators. They also help to keep the water quality healthy and clean.
Anglers should be aware that while there is an abundance of fish in the Mississippi River, they should follow local regulations, as certain species may be protected or certain areas may be off-limits to fishing. Federal, state and local laws may also apply. Furthermore, anglers should practice conservation and take steps to ensure the sustainability of the fish population in the River.
Impact of Changing Water Level on Mississippi Fish
The changing water levels of the Mississippi River, due to floods and droughts, can have a dramatic effect on fish populations. When the river’s water levels are high due to flooding, fish have more space to roam and food to eat, resulting in increased populations. On the other hand, when water levels drastically drop due to drought conditions, the fish can die off or be trapped in small ponds, resulting in decreased populations.
A case study was done in 2019 along the Wisconsin section of the Mississippi River to analyze the effects of changing water levels on fish populations. Fishing data was collected before and after a period of high water levels, and the results showed that the different species of fishes did change in size and abundance due to the fluctuation in levels.
This study also showed that the species who benefit from high water levels can have a higher chance of survival, while the species who prefer low water levels are more at risk. Therefore, it is important to understand the implications of changing water levels on different fish species before implementing fishing regulations.
Man-made Changes in Mississippi River
With rapid population and urban growth, the Mississippi river is facing many man-made changes that can potentially influence the fish and aquatic life of the river. For example, due to the construction of dams, aquaculture and other human activity, the river’s flow and water temperature can be altered. High water temperature can decrease the dissolved oxygen level and harm the fish, while dams can reduce the number of habitats available to the fish.
In addition, many pollutants like fertilizer, pesticides and sewage can enter the Mississippi River and create a hostile environment for the fish. This pollution can eventually affect the whole food web, as the polluted water can reach other nearby water bodies where the fish depend on for their food source.
Due to these changes, many of the Mississippi River’s native species are being threatened. In order to protect the fish population, there needs to be more stringent regulations and conservation efforts in place.
Sustainable Fishing Practices
In the face of man-made changes and the impact of changing water levels, sustainable fishing practices are critical for preserving the fish population in the Mississippi River. It’s important for anglers to practice safe, responsible fishing 11that adheres to the rules and regulations set by the state. This means that they must be aware of the size and limits of the fish they are catching and releasing, as well as taking steps to minimize the amount of bait they use. Anglers should also take care to avoid overfishing, as this can deplete the fish population in the river.
In addition, anglers should participate in activities to help preserve the river’s ecosystem. This can include cleaning up trash along the shoreline, planting native plants on the banks, and more. By working together, anglers can help ensure that the Mississippi River and its fish remain healthy and plentiful for years to come.
Importance of Conserving Mississippi Fish
Preserving the fish population in the Mississippi River is of great importance, not only to anglers and locals but to the entire ecosystem. Each fish in the river plays a vital role in maintaining the balance and health of the entire environment. Furthermore, by protecting the fish population, humans can help to create a safe and sustainable environment for future generations to enjoy.
Many local organizations are working to preserve the fish population in the Mississippi River, such as donating money for the purchase of nursery habitats, setting up spawning beds, and providing education and conservation outreach efforts. By backing these initiatives, anglers can help to ensure that the varied and diverse fish population of the Mississippi River can continue to thrive for years to come.
Conclusion
All in all, the Mississippi River is home to a variety of fish species, from the Flathead Catfish and Largemouth Bass, to the Black Crappie and Longear Sunfish. While these fish may be popular amongst fishermen, they are important players in the delicate balance of the river’s ecosystem. In order to protect the fish population, it’s necessary to practice sustainable fishing methods, support local conservation efforts and be mindful of the impacts of man-made changes and the changing water levels. By doing so, future generations will be able to enjoy the majestic sights and sounds of the Mississippi River.
