TOMAHAWK TROUT.

Evening Star, Issue 22618, 9 April 1937, Page 16

TOMAHAWK TROUT.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —At last the council of the Acclimatisation Society has decided against putting stripped fish into Tomahawk Lagoon. I have fished there for a few seasons, and the fish have been in good condition until this season. What is the cause of their deterioration? At the meeting, two fish produced by Mr Macbnie, were on show. Were these fish examined for the cause' of their condition, or were they judged on their external appearance? If it was the latter it does not say much for their research ability. I had the privilege of examining some stripped fish taken from the lagoon which had gone back in condition, and in every one there was a considerable quantify of last year’s spawn which the fish could not discharge. What would have been this season’s spawn was covered with congealed blood. There were also a number of blood clots. I have come to the conclusion that the fish were not mature at the time they were stripped. . I. have retained a sample of spawn taken from one fish. It is withered and decayed, and it has been suggested that I send it to the Inspector of Fisheries for his opinion. It is not to the .credit of the council or the Research Committee the way Tomahawk Lagoon has been neglected. The Research Committee does not visit Tomahawk when it can go further i.n the ranger’s car. I have also seen but one member of the committee fishing in the lagoon, but thenthere was a prize attached to it. He may be there again, as I hear there is another competition at the weekend. I wonder how many of the council will go to see the weigh-in on Saturday night? It would be a good opportunity for them to see the grating at the end of the lagoon. It is supposed to keep the fish in; but they will be able to crawl through the openings. It is about time the ■ members put their house .in order and worked iyith anglers,, not against them.—l am, etc., Observer. April 8.