Starting June of 2026 MCR, in conjunction with NJDFW, is starting a study of MCR’s Salmonidae species in the reservoir. Specifically, MCR is conducting creel surveys for ONLY Atlantic Land-locked Salmon, Lake Trout and Rainbow Trout. Should an angler catch any of these three species at the reservoir we are respectfully asking that the fish be reported to any on-duty MCR’s Boat Ramp Attendant located at the Boat Ramp Parking Lot. MCR Boat Ramp Attendants will have a measuring board and scale at the MCR Boat House to record weight and length. Even if the fish was caught and released, we are asking that anglers upon returning to the boat launch please report the estimated weight, length, and Salmonidae species name to the MCR Boat Ramp attendant.
At some point during the summer months, collection of stomach contents from these 3 species may occur. Stomach content collection is OPTIONAL and is ONLY at the permission of the angler harvesting the fish. Should an angler allow stomach content collection on its harvested fish, an MCR Boat Ramp Attendant will perform the collection.
This study will help the management of MCR’s fishery providing important information in these three categories:
- Angler success and harvest rates for these Salmonidae species in MCR
- Obtain a better understanding of prey usage by these Salmonidae species in MCR
- Assist with a better understanding of overall health / population dynamics of these Salmonidae species in MCR
Of special note for any Salmon caught at MCR. All salmon stocked by NJDFW at MCR have a “Fin Clip” identification mark to determine what year they were released into the reservoir. Fin clipping is a fisheries management and research technique where specific fins are harmlessly removed from fish. It is primarily used to distinguish hatchery-raised fish from wild fish, track stocking programs, and identify specific groups of fish or family lines in breeding and research. Upon catching a salmon at MCR, please look at its fins to see what year the fish was stocked. This information is important to determine age of the fish. A chart of Salmon Fin Clip Info will be posted at the kiosk adjacent to the MCR Boat House in the Boat Ramp parking lot.
