Hucho Taimen Conservation in Mongolia

The ecological impacts of recreational fisheries are of growing concern, and pose a number of unique management challenges.  In this study we report on our efforts to design a sustainable fishery for the giant Eurasian trout (Hucho taimen) in Mongolia. This species has declined dramatically across its range of Siberia and Central Asia, and is currently listed as endangered in Mongolia. Strong populations persist in remote regions of Mongolia because of limited anthropogenic impacts and harvest, though interest in the fishery is expanding rapidly. Through a combination of statistical models, climate data, knowledge of taimen biology, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), we modeled taimen spawning dates for potential habitat in Mongolia. We recommended the designation of three fisheries management zones, with differing corresponding opening dates. Though less restrictive than existing regulations, our approach serves both environmental and human needs by protecting taimen during the reproductive period, while allowing for a spring (post-spawning) catch-and-release fishery, thereby supporting local economies and generating revenue (through fishing concession fees) for local conservation efforts.

Collaborators:
Jake Vander Zanden
Jeff T. Maxted
David Gilroy
Brant C. Allen
Sudeep Chandra
Zeb Hogan
Jun Zhu
Mongolia Taimen Project