25X would be a minimum and 50-100X would be better depending on the size of the scale. I calculate ewest's LMB scale above is magnified around 50X. Scale reading is an art form and then often the read is inaccurate depending on several factors. Although sometimes the scale is in very good condition and growth marks are distinct as in ewest's example LMB scale above. Sometimes fish form false annuli on the scales. Ohio DNR learned this when going from reading scales to otoliths for Lk Erie walleye.
Last edited by Bill Cody; 06/06/11 08:55 PM.
