Fish and Game Seeks Comments On Fishing Rules

Idaho Department of Fish and Game is seeking public input on potential fishing season and rule changes for 2011-2012. "We're in the scoping phase of the rule change process, which is when we want to hear ideas on potential changes to fishing seasons and rules, as well as share our ideas about what changes we think may be appropriate," Regional Fisheries Manager Jim Fredericks said. The rule change process this year is being accompanied by a statewide effort to simplify fishing rules and make the brochure easier to understand, Fredericks said. Fish and Game hopes to achieve some of this by eliminating antiquated and unnecessary rules. Based on public comments collected during the scoping period, Fish and Game will develop rule change proposals that will be presented for public comment later this summer. To gather public comments Fish and Game will host four public scoping meetings around the region. Anyone with ideas on how Fish and Game can improve fishing opportunities or interested in the rule change process is encouraged to attend. Biologists will present information on the efforts to simplify the seasons and rules, discuss potential changes, and be available to provide information on local fisheries. All meetings will begin at 7 p.m.:

• April 7 - Elks Lodge in the Fireside Room, 628 Main St., St. Maries.
• April 8 - Panhandle Health District office, 1020 Michigan St., Sandpoint.
• April 14 - Fish and Game regional office, 2885 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d'Alene.

In addition to the evening meetings, Idaho Fish and Game will be holding a Sportsman's Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. March 27 at the Silver Valley Memorial Hall, 110 Hill St., Kellogg. Anglers not able to attend the meetings, or anyone needing special accommodations are encouraged to contact Jim Fredericks jim.fredericks@idfg.idaho.gov at the Fish and Game regional office at 2885 W. Kathleen Avenue, Coeur d'Alene, or by phone at 208-769-1414. Note: 2008-2009 fishing rules will remain in effect until the new rules become effective and a new brochure is 1 in 2011.