Rappahannock River

The 2011 catch index for the Rappahannock River is 6.51. This approaches the highest values recorded in 2003 (7.10) and 2004 (7.06).  An interim restoration target of 1.45 is set for the Rappahannock River. The 2011 mean catch index is 3.31. Since catch index data from historical records  is low for the Rappahannock River there is uncertainty about what an appropriate target should be. The target was reached using catch data from 1980-1993. There is little evidence of severe stock decline in the Rappahannock River. The stock is considered to be low but stable. VDGIF continues a hatchery-release program on the upper Rappahannock River using brood stock from the Potomac River.