affect rainbow populations adversely through competition and, to a lesser extent, predation. 

 Crayfish currently exist in the lake and may be the result of unauthorized plants. Largemouth bass 

 were not captured in the nets but were known to be quite abundant in the past. 



Rainbow Lake is totally surrounded by Plum Creek Timberland property and that property is 

 scheduled to go on sale in 1997. Sale of the lake to a different owner may preclude management 

 for a public fishery. 



Mnnagpinftnt CnnfftriK: 



Yellow perch populations make successfiil stocking of rainbow trout very difficult. 

 Preferred Managenipnt Optinn; 



Management opticms cmsidaed included cumrait stocking levels, chemical rehab, to increase bass 

 levels to ccmtrol yellow perch and to manage as a bass/perch fishery. Rainbow Lake received 48 

 comments. 



Under the preferred managemoit option, Rainbow Lake would be managed as a two-tiered fishery 

 to include bass and trout. Stocking rates of trout would be adjusted through monitoring to 

 maximize catch rates. Experimental stocking of largemouth and smallmouth bass could 

 conunence. FWP would monitor the success of the program and make adjustments through the 

 ad£^tive management provision. Regulations for bass could include the spawning closure (May 

 15 through June 30; one bass daily and in possession, 22 inch minimum). All activities proposed 

 are provisional on acquiring a permanent access agreement with Plum Creek Timber Company 

 as the lake is entirely within Plum Creek lands. 



38 



