The response of a brown trout stocks and perception of anglers to cessation of brown trout stocking

Abstract Since the mid‐1980s, water quality has improved in German rivers, and fisheries have recovered. However, it is unsure whether the improvements are sufficient to maintain stocks and angling yield without supplementary stocking. This study examined the development in the local brown trout, Salmo trutta L., stocks and angling yield in the River Wutach following cessation of stocking in 2001, using electric fishing and an angler questionnaire. Natural reproduction was recorded in each year between 2001 and 2007, and a stable stock of trout >20 cm was found. Trout catches by anglers increased after stocking ceased and approximately 60% of the anglers were convinced that stocking was unnecessary to maintain the brown trout stocks or angler catch satisfaction.