Fish Distribution

This data category is defined as “areas of suitable and accessible habitat currently believed to be used by wild, hatchery, or naturalized fish populations, based on sampling and/or best biological judgment.” “Current” is defined by each data-providing agency according to their policies. The data set identifies where various species are believed to exist, but does not address where a species is absent — lack of a record for a particular species in a particular place should not be interpreted as implying that the species does not exist there. Rather, you should interpret lack of a record as simply that a determination has not been made for that species at that location. While it is certainly true that a species is not present at a great many places where they are not shown, this data set should not be used as positive evidence for a species being absent at a location. These data are updated as new information becomes available.