Idaho Fishing Rules to Continue Through 2010

Idaho anglers should hold onto their 2008-2009 Idaho fishing rules brochures for one more year. Though labeled "2008-2009 Fishing Seasons and Rules," the publication and rules will stay the same through 2010, according to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. A new, two-year rule brochure will be developed for 2011-2012. While the current rules have been extended one year, Fish and Game Regional Fisheries Manager Jim Fredericks says that "now is the time to start thinking about the next regulation cycle." In the next few months, fishery managers around the state are inviting anglers to share their ideas on potential rule changes, that include equipment restrictions, such as the type of hooks or equipment that can be used, the use of bait, and activities, such as fishing contests. They do not include seasons, bag limits or size limits. To begin the process, Fredericks has scheduled an opportunity for anglers to discuss fishing rules with regional fishery personnel. An open house is set from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 7 at the Fish and Game regional office, 2885 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d'Alene. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Regional Fishery Manager Jim Fredericks at 769-1414 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377- 3529(TDD). Requests must be received at least 48 hours prior to each scheduled meeting for accommodations to be guaranteed. Until mid-April, Fish and Game will be seeking public comments on fishing rules. Based on those comments, proposed rules will be presented to the public for additional review in July. Because rules require legislative authorization, comments must be gathered a year in advance. The season change process will begin a year from now, with new fishing rules set to take effect in January, 2011. Idaho Fish and Game is specifically asking for opinions on four statewide issues. Some of these issues have been brought up by the public over the past two years. "Others," Fredericks said, "are part of an effort to make rules more user-friendly." One issue particularly relevant to the Panhandle Region is potential elimination of the "Electric Motors Only" rule. For many people who have no electric motors, the rule limits angling opportunity. Though there are places where the use of motors isn't appropriate, the existing rule is a cumbersome way of restricting boating through fishing rules. In most cases, the rule applies only to anglers who are actively fishing and does not apply to jet skis, water skiers, or other recreational activities using watercraft. Those activities are regulated by county ordinances. Elimination of the rule would simply mean anglers and Fish and Game would work with the counties to determine the most appropriate watercraft restrictions. A second suggestion is to remove "Family Fishing Waters" as an actual rule. This is mainly a rules clarification issue, and would not take away opportunities for good places to take families. The Family Fishing Waters program would continue, but the existing requirement that these waters have no length limits, year-round seasons, and six-fish limits for trout and bass would be eliminated. Fredericks says this change would make the program "more flexible and of better use to the public." A third suggestion is to eliminate the "no bait" definition. Currently, "no bait" means anglers may use artificial flies or lures with only one barbless hook per fly or lure. Up to 5 flies or lures may be used. A potential new definition of "no bait allowed" would simply prohibit the use of bait. The definition change would allow lures with multiple hooks. Finally, Fish and Game is asking sturgeon anglers to provide their thoughts on a rule that would require special tackle for sturgeon fishing. A suggestion is to require a single barbless circle hook and sliding sinker when sturgeon fishing. Many anglers and biologists are concerned that mortality associated with sturgeon hooking and handling may affect the population in heavily fished waters. "Research has shown circle hooks reduce hooking mortality," Fredericks said. Anglers may provide comments and suggestions at the April 7 open house, by calling the Fish and Game at 208-769-1414, by e-mail to jfredericks@idfg.idaho.gov, or by U.S. mail. Letters should be sent to: Fishing Rules, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, 2885 W. Kathleen Ave., Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815. Though the focus for now is on rules, anglers are welcomed to comment on seasons and limits rules as well.