Studies of sampling methods and of techniques for estimating populations of eels, Anguilla anguilla L.

Abstract. The performance of fyke netting was compared with that of electrofishing in an artificially stocked closed pond and in open waters with natural populations in the Thames catchment, England. Seine netting, trapping and fyke nets of different mesh size were also compared using wild populations. Studies of mark-recapture and catch-depletion techniques for estimating population sizes and structures were included. It was concluded that no single technique was ideal because of the difficulties inherent in adequately sampling eels in all aquatic environments. Recommendations are made and the implications of fyke net efficiency for commercial fishing are discussed.