2002-2003 Fishing Rules Approved

Meeting in Pocatello October 1, the Idaho Fish and Game Commission approved 2002-2003 fishing rules. The rules designated "family fishing waters" with a year-around season, general six-fish limit for trout, bass, walleye and pike, no bag limits on other species, no length limits and "standard fishing gear." Other statewide changes include raising the daily bag limit from five to six on northern pike, bass, walleye and sauger, and to 25 on the prolific brook trout. The limit on whitefish will drop from 50 to 25 and the length limit on tiger muskie will raise from a minimum of 30 inches to 40 inches. The general whitefish season is redefined as a "winter stream season" to clarify that trout must be released, but whitefish and brook trout may be kept. Tackle or bait restrictions that apply in the general season would also apply in the winter season. "Float tube" is redefined to exclude anything propelled by paddles, oars, or motors used by a single person suspended from the seat down. Other changes refer to specific regions or waters.