Fish and Game Plans Public Meetings on Fishing Rules

Idaho Fish and Game has set public meetings across the Upper Snake Region over the next few weeks to discuss potential fishing rule changes. It's all part of the process for setting the 2011-2012 fishing seasons and rules. After a first round of meetings to hear what the public has to say, Fish and Game will develop a set of proposals to present for comment. Meetings are planned for Idaho Falls, Mackay, Driggs and Island Park. "During the scoping phase is when we want to hear ideas on potential rule changes from anglers, as well as share our ideas about what changes we are looking at considering. The main point of these meetings is to solicit ideas from the public on how we can do things better. We want comments to focus on outcomes, as opposed to specific regulations," said Dan Garren, regional fisheries manager. Among the ideas that will be presented to the public is a draft version of a new, easier to use regulations format, with the goal of simplification in mind. "The biggest change will be moving from a rivers and streams default season of May to November to a new season of open all year and managed through exceptions to close waters when necessary," Garren said. All meetings start at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 24 - Fish and Game regional office, Idaho Falls. Thursday, March 25 - Mackay High School, Mackay. Tuesday, March 30 - Teton County Courthouse, Driggs. Wednesday, April 1 - Ponds Lodge, Island Park. The public is encouraged to attend a meeting and comments on potential proposals or other fishing related topics. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Garren at Idaho Fish & Game at 525-7290 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529 (TDD). Comments also may be sent via email to dan.garren@idfg.idaho.gov. Deadline for comments is 5 p.m. on April 15.