Commission Approves Fishing Rule Changes

Meeting in Idaho Falls October 2-3, the Idaho Fish and Game Commission approved fishing rules for 2004-2005 including liberalization of steelhead fishing. The steelhead changes were the main differences from rules affecting anglers statewide. Other changes recommended by Fish and Game generally apply locally. The Commission approved increasing the daily creel limit on steelhead to three, with nine allowed in possession and 20 for the season. The new limits are already in effect for the remainder of the fall season, and carry over into the new year. The other changes go into effect with the new brochure, January 1, 2004. The two-pole permit will be legal for anadromous fishing as it is now for resident species. The snagging prohibition for steelhead, and all game fish, will be altered to read that "a foul-hooked fish must be released" and new language will make it plain that it is illegal to use a hook or lure other than to entice the fish to strike and be hooked in the mouth or jaw.