Angler Ideas Sought by Fish and Game

Fishing rules for 2004 and 2005 are in the early stages of development and anglers are encouraged to share their ideas with Fish and Game at an upcoming open house. "We want to invite every interested angler to attend one of our get-togethers and share their ideas with us," Fish and Game fisheries manager Jeff Dillon noted. "We'll be using these ideas to formulate proposed rule changes for the 2004/2005 fishing seasons." Addressing the way in which fish tournaments are regulated and changes in sturgeon tackle requirements are two issues being discussed. Proposed changes would remove permit requirements for some smaller tournaments that do not have a live weigh-in. Biologists would also like feedback on possible tackle restrictions for sturgeon fishing aimed at reducing hooking mortality. These might include prohibiting stainless steel hooks and certain types of line, items that do not decompose over time. "None of these are formal proposals," Dillon said. "We're just interested in seeing whether these ideas are something to pursue." Fishing rules open houses will be held at these locations from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. unless as noted: Nampa Monday, May 12 F&G Regional Office 3101 S. Powerline Road Boise Tuesday, May 13 F&G Headquarters (Trophy Room) 600 S. Walnut McCall Thursday, May 15 F&G Regional Office 444 Deinhard Drive (note: noon to 7:30 p.m.) Anglers unable to attend one of the open houses can submit their suggestions in written form or e-mail their comments directly to Dillon at jdillon@idfg.state.id.us Send written comments to: Fish and Game, Attention Jeff Dillon, 3101 S. Powerline Road, Nampa, ID 83686. The comment deadline is May 30. Ideas generated during this comment period will be used to formulate proposed changes to the 2004/2005 fishing rules. Additional open houses will be held in July and August to determine popular support for any proposed changes. Final proposed changes will be presented to the Fish and Game Commission in the fall for review and action. For more information regarding the fishing rule change process, contact Fish and Game's Southwest Region office in Nampa at 465-8465 or the McCall office at 634-8137.