SC Wisconsin News

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point graduate student Ryan Bohen is advancing research on the bigmouth and smallmouth buffalo fish species in Wisconsin. His work, part of his studies at UW-Stevens Point’s College of Natural Resources, focuses on these native species often overlooked in fisheries management.

Bohen's research explores the age structure, reproductive patterns, and growth of buffalo across 14 waterbodies in Wisconsin. The study also examines their role in bowfishing tournaments statewide. "Bigmouth and smallmouth buffalo are lesser-known native species that have garnered more attention in recent years due to their capacity to live to old ages," said Bohen. He emphasized the importance of data for informed population management decisions as bowfishing gains popularity.

Bowfishing involves shooting fish with a bow and arrow, often at night. Buffalo accounted for about 17% of tournament harvests between 2023 and 2024. Bohen's team used advanced techniques to estimate fish ages, discovering lifespans from 14 to 71 years and varying reproductive maturity rates among populations.

Daniel Isermann, director of the Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit and Bohen's advisor, noted the findings' implications: "These findings show how adaptable buffalo are, but they also highlight the need for careful management."

The research is conducted with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Wisconsin Bowfishing Association. It marks the state's first formal assessment of bowfishing harvests across its landscape, providing crucial data for future regulations and conservation strategies.

For Bohen, this project aims to raise awareness about an understudied species while contributing to sustainable aquatic ecosystems in Wisconsin. “It’s exciting to conduct novel research on an understudied native fish,” he said.

Bohen believes his findings could influence monitoring and management practices for other non-game native fish species. "Research like this is essential for making informed decisions," he stated.

Ryan Bohen will graduate in January after presenting his results at a public seminar last December.