Project Description
To compensate for injuries to aquatic habitats and the loss of recreational uses, Connecticut B.A.S.S. Nation (CBN) received $46,050 from the Connecticut SubCouncil of the Housatonic River Natural Resource Trustees to deploy artificial habitat structures in three impoundments along the Housatonic River. This project was intended to restore near-shore fisheries habitat and enhance recreational angling opportunities. With support from the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP), CBN conducted preliminary surveys in Lake Housatonic, Lake Zoar and Lake Lillinonah to assess the bottom type and existing habitat complexity to determine the placement of the artificial habitats. The structures that were deployed for this project were manufactured by MossBack Fish Habitat. These artificial fish habitats are made from recycled PVC that is durable and flexible, and the specially designed limbs are snag-resistant. The textured limbs also encourage plant and algal growth to give the structures a more natural look. Several days prior to deployment, the bases were filled with concrete and allowed to properly set.
On the morning of each deployment, teams of volunteers organized by CBN assisted with assembling the structures. To increase fish recruitment numbers and attract more fish, the structures were placed in groupings call "Fish Cities". Each Fish City had two sets of "laydowns" that lead away from spawning areas toward deeper water. These laydowns are deployed horizontally and have an open limb pattern that allows sportfish, such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, and yellow perch, to hide and ambush prey. In the deeper water, four "Safe Haven" structures were deployed. With numerous V-shaped limbs, Safe Havens provide cover for larval and juvenile fish of many species as well as baitfish including minnows and shiners. Approximately 10 "Trophy Tree" structures were also deployed in the deeper areas. These have an open limb pattern that provides shade and allows larger sportfish to hide while they forage. Two Fish Cities were deployed in Lake Housatonic, three in Lake Zoar and seven in Lake Lillinonah. Following the placements of the artificial habitats, CT DEEP monitored the effectiveness of the habitat structures using side imaging sonar.
Parties Implementing Restoration
Connecticut B.A.S.S. Nation (CBN); Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
DOI Project Representatives
Fish and Wildlife Service