Fish Stocking / Habitats
Pond Services and Pond Maintenance
Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and Northern Illinois
FISH SURVEYS & STOCKING
We employ two fish survey techniques: fyke netting and electrofishing. The purpose of fish surveys are to determine which fish are present in a lake or pond and estimate fish population dynamics. Our fisheries biologists assess populations to determine structure, age, growth rates, stunting, mortality rates and many other factors to help you manage your fishery, in Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan, or Northern Illinois. Survey duration and the amount of data collected are specific to your project goals.
Each spring and fall, Cason & Associates provides native fish for stocking into lakes and ponds. Our biologists can recommend a stocking program that will help you to maintain a balanced fishery. All fish sold are grown in licensed hatcheries and are veterinary certified to be disease-free.
Fish species that are commonly available include:
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Fathead Minnow
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Golden Shiner
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Bass (Largemouth & Smallmouth)
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Black Crappie
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Bluegill & Hybrid Bluegill
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Channel Catfish
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Muskellunge and Tiger Muskellunge
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Northern Pike
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Pumpkinseed
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Trout (Brook, Brown & Rainbow)
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Walleye
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Yellow Perch
FISH HABITAT STRUCTURES
The quantity and quality of fish habitats in a body of water has a direct impact on fish populations, in our area of Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Northern Illinois.
Cover for fish is often lacking in man-made ponds, and even in some lakes. Fish structures provide an aspect of habitat that is critical to survival and reproduction. They provide places for small fish and fry to hide, thereby allowing them to survive long enough to reproduce. Structures can also improve fishing success by concentrating bait fish and creating hunting grounds for larger game fish.
When selecting habitat structures, you have two options: artificial or natural.
ARTIFICIAL
Artificial structures are easy to assemble and transport. The structures we use have a textured surface to promote algae growth, a prime food source for small fish, and V-shaped branches, which reduce snagging when fishing.
Artificial structures can only be placed in private waterbodies. If you have a public waterbody, you will need to focus on natural habitat structures and may require a permit for installation.
NATURAL
Natural materials, such as fish cribs, fish sticks or fallen trees work well, but are cumbersome to transport and decay rapidly, requiring replacement. Sourcing and installing these natural structures can be problematic. However, grant funding is available for habitat improvement projects, such as building and installing fish sticks.
Cason & Associates, servicing the Wisconsin, Upper Peninsula of Michigan, & Northern Illinois areas, have the locally sourced materials, equipment, and know-how to build and install these structures. We also work with lake groups and handle any applicable permitting and grant writing that may be required to help you improve your fishery.
Contact Us
to determine which fish survey would suit your needs, get fish stocking recommendations or to place a fish order.