Application of the Relative Weight Index to Juvenile Walleyes

Weight‐length data for juvenile walleyes Stizostedion vitreum from 39 populations (N = 2,006) in seven states were used to develop a standard weight (Ws) equation. We used the regression‐line‐percentile technique, which provides a 75th‐percentile standard, to develop the equation. The proposed Ws equation is log10 Ws(g) = −4.804 + 2.869 log10total length (TL, mm). The equivalent in English units is log10 Ws(lb) = −3.431 + 2.869 log10TL(in). The walleye Ws equation is valid for juvenile fish between 30 and 149 mm. This proposed Ws equation should serve as a basis for further evaluation of Wr as an index and the continued development of Ws equations for juvenile fishes.