Deadline for Angler Opinion Survey Approaching

Interested anglers are reminded they have until February 5 to take part in an online survey about fishing in Idaho. The survey, offered every five or six years, covers a variety of topics including how often people fish and their preferred fish species, what types of fishing regulations they support, and what important conservation priorities Fish and Game should pursue. Fish and Game is also interested in learning more about what other values are important to anglers, such as solitude or natural beauty. Results from the survey will help shape Fish and Game's next statewide fish management plan, which will go into effect in 2013. Beginning this spring, Fish and Game offices around the state will hold public meetings to review the 2007-2012 plan and gather comments for the new plan. "The angler opinion survey is the first of many steps we take to ensure our fisheries program is providing what the public wants", notes Jeff Dillon, Fish and Game's State Fishery Manager. "We've conducted these surveys for over 30 years and they help us understand what anglers want, measure how well we meet their expectations, and keep us focused on activities that benefit fish and fishermen". The online survey can be found on the Fish and Game website homepage at fishandgame.idaho.gov and should take 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Any participation is appreciated.