Comments Sought on Fishing Rules, Salmon Seasons

Come to one of the public meetings in the Lewiston area listed below and let the Idaho Department of Fish and Game know what your suggestions or opinions are on any potential rule changes you would like to see in the 2011-2012 fishing regulations. Some of the issues that will be discussed at these meetings include limit and season changes on some of the Clearwater Regions rivers and streams, bait restrictions during the Clearwater River catch-and-release steelhead season, barbless hook requirements on the Clearwater River, hook restrictions on the South Fork Clearwater River, and extending fishing opportunities on Dworshak Reservoir. Other comments are welcome. During these meetings, Fish and Game will also be presenting efforts to make the fishing rules simpler and easier to understand, and how these changes could potentially influence the fishing rules. These meetings will run in conjunction with the Chinook salmon meetings. Fishery staff member will discuss management strategies they have used in the past and new ideas that could be used in the future. Opinions and comments regarding the upcoming Chinook salmon season are welcome. All meetings will be from 6 to 8 p.m.:

• February 22, Kooskia Community Center, 26 Main Street, Kooskia.
• February 23, Super 8 Motel, 801 W South 1st St., Grangeville.
• February 24, IDFG Clearwater Hatchery, 118 Hatchery Roe Drive, northwest of Ahsahka Bridge, Orofino.
• February 25 (6 p.m. Mountain Time), Best Western Salmon Rapids Lodge, 1010 S. Main St., Riggins.
• March 1, Idaho Fish and Game Office, 3316 16th St., Lewiston.

Those unable to attend a meeting may provide their comments by contacting regional fishery personnel at 208-799-5010 or send their information in writing to Fishing Rules, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, 3316 16th St., Lewiston, ID, 83501, or email Joe DuPont, Clearwater Region fisheries manager at joe.dupont@idfg.idaho.gov.