The state is taking a look at the fish quality and quantity in Mauch Chunk Lake to see how the ecosystem is doing.

Recently, Daryl Pierce, area manager for the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, spoke with the Carbon County Parks and Recreation Commission about the state’s current project to see how the fish population is doing in the lake.

He said that the state has been assessing various fish populations since March and is now assessing the bass population.

Mauch Chunk Lake is in the Big Bass program, which means there are fish 15 inches and larger in the waters.

“I want to make sure the big bass grounds are doing what they are intended to do to produce big bass and make sure other fish populations are doing well,” he told the commission.

Pierce noted that the lake as a whole is ideal for bass, but is concerned there aren’t enough trophy size fish to provide hobbyists and average anglers with a big bass experience.

“The far side of the lake is the perfect bass habitat and the upper side of the lake is nursery habitat for bass,” he said. “You’re in a perfect scenario for a bass fishery.”

Pierce said that the state will look at bass it catches through trips on the lake and see the size of the fish.

“If only 5% are above (the 15-inch) limit, then are we giving the fishermen a great experience?” he asked.

He added that other fish, such as yellow perch are in “robust population” in Mauch Chunk.

Overall though, Pierce said that the fish population is doing well.

“The lake has been very stable in producing quality fish and bass in the past,” Pierce said. “I think you have a great lake out there.”

Rick Forgay, a commission member and frequent angler on Mauch Chunk Lake, asked what adjustments could be made if the big bass population is smaller than hoped.

Pierce said depending on the state’s findings, he will return with a report in early winter to provide more information and suggestions on growing the trophy fish population and maintaining a strong fishing lake, such as lowering the harvestable size of the fish and capping the number of larger bass allowed to be taken.