Fishery Concepts
computer exercisesuggested grade levels: 9-12
view Idaho achievement standards for this lesson

Overview:
Fish play a very important role in aquatic habitats. They prey on many smaller species such as mosquito larvae and are also food to many larger species like bald eagles. They also play an important role for humans, both as a food source and for recreation and tourism. The following activity will increase your student's knowledge about fish in Idaho.

Objectives:
1. Students will learn how to use the Digital Atlas of Idaho.
2. Students will learn about some basic fish concepts.

Procedure:
Have your students use the game fisheries section of the Digital Atlas of Idaho. To get there: Click on Atlas Home, mouse-over Hydrology, then click on Game Fisheries. Encourage your students to explore these pages and click on the links to see the pictures. Have them do any one or all three of the following:

1. Select at least three of the game fish species discussed in the fisheries module and explain how the historic topographic development (and concurrent drainage development) of Idaho has influenced the development of their different populations. Make a timeline, and draw and label a map to help support your discussion. You may wish to print out a map of Idaho showing streams and lakes or click on Atlas Home, then on Idaho Maps. Use the zoom and layers functions to adjust the map the way you want it.

2. Compare and contrast:
  a. Sockeye Salmon vs. Kokanee Salmon
  b. Rainbow Trout vs. Steelhead Trout

3. Discuss the pros and cons of hatchery fish programs in terms of their impacts (actual or potential) on wild fish populations.

Handouts/Activity links:
These are links to access the handouts and printable materials.
Game Fisheries | Idaho Maps | idout2ho.pdf

Related Lesson Topics:
Biology: Fish
Extra Topics: General Topics

Lesson plan by Vita Taube, 2000
Idaho Achievement Standards (as of 7/2001) met by completing this activity:
355.02
359.01.02.03
401.01.04.05