Fish and Game to host fishing rules open house

JEROME - The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) has scheduled an open house meeting for Wednesday, September 21 for the public to review and provide comments on the proposed 2006-2007 fishing regulations. The open house will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at IDFG's Magic Valley Regional Office, 319 South 417 East, two miles north of the Flying J on the eastside of Highway 93. "We use fishing regulations as one way to provide diverse fishing opportunities desired by anglers," said Doug Megargle, Magic Valley Regional Fishery Manager. "Getting public feedback regarding changes in fishing regulations is crucial since the IDFG Commission considers both social and biological issues before ordering changes". Proposed rule changes affect Dierkes Lake, Mormon Reservoir and Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir. The department is proposing to eliminate special regulations on Dierkes Lake (two bass over 20 inches) and Mormon Reservoir (two trout limit). Some anglers have proposed restrictive harvest regulations (quality/trophy rules) on walleye and trout in Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir as well as a perch harvest limit. The proposed changes on Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir include a reduction in daily bag limits for perch (20 fish), trout (four fish), and walleye (four fish - only one over 23 inches). "Our goal is to get as many people to comment on the proposals as possible, so we will have a general idea on what the majority of the fishermen want," said Megargle. "Some rule changes were proposed because the current regulations weren't working, while others were submitted by the public." Those unable to attend may submit comments to the regional office, by calling 324-4359 or by going to the department internet web site http://fishandgame.idaho.gov where users will find a link on the home page. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting the Magic Valley Regional office of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game directly at 208-324-4359 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-2529 (TDD).