Oxygen Levels

Fish breathe dissolved oxygen. The amount is measured in parts per million. Fish deprived of the appropriate amount of oxygen become Stressed and difficult to catch. Under severe oxygen deprivation fish activity virtually shuts down. If the condiions worsen individuals will actually leave the area.

Oxygen is supplied to the aquatic environment through a variety of vays, including current, wind, and the photosynthesis of aquatic vegetaion. Rotting vegetation, stagnation, the presence of blue/green algae, and turbidity (suspended particles) are all signs of low oxygen. As a rule of thumb, in oxygen-poor environments most of the oxygen and most of the Fish are restricted to shallower zones. Therefore, oxygen levels are especially important to deep-water Fishermen.

Oxygen requirements of fish differ From species to species. For instance, the largemouth, carp, and catfish are comfortable in low oxygen environnents which would kill brook trout or salmon.

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