Relationship between Trout Populations and Cover on a Small Stream

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Abstract
A 2-year study was made of the relationship between trout populations and cover on a small, spring-fed creek in Gallatin County, Montana. Fourteen study sections were established with regard to types of cover present or absent. These sections were inventoried 4 times at intervals of two to four months. Cover on eight of the sections was altered in 1 of 3 ways; by (1) the application of artificial brush cover, (2) removal of natural brush cover, or (3) removal of under-cut bank. Following alteration, all sections were inventoried 3 more times. In four sections altered by the application of brush cover, there was a marked increase in the number and wt. of fish. Two sections which were altered by the removal of brush cover showed a reduction in the wt. of fish present, but numbers remained relatively constant. Under-cut bank was removed from 2 sections. These sections had a decrease in the wt. of fish but the number of fish increased. Five sections were unaltered and acted as controls. One section was used for general observations. Aquatic vegetation appeared to have cover value for smaller fish while rooted. After breaking loose from the stream bottom, the plants would form rafts of cover which were utilized by fish of all sizes.

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