In teasing the data, there seems to be a few more fish at the upper end of the curve than in previous surveys, suggesting greater odds of recruitment of bigger fish into the 18-19-20 inch or bigger over time. The bigger fish at the Barrels tend to be Browns and that was the case in 2024 sitting in maybe 2 feet of water and a deadfall! I have tried to look at mortality and the data suggest at least 85-90% mortality in the 1st year (young of year) trout. The literature, in general, says 95% the first year, then 40-60% mortality in that group the 2nd year and 40-60% again of that group in the 3rd year. It is a tough row to hoe. Over the last 3 years, I have seen a good number of 20 inch plus Rainbow and Brown trout being caught below the Falls.
I also attached a photo of a trout captured in the process of eating a young of year trout!!