The Idaho Department of Fish & Game plans public meetings across the Magic Valley 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.
Idaho Fish and Game will host three meetings from 6 to 8 p.m.:
- September 9, Magic Valley Regional Office, 319 South 417 East, Highway Business Park, 2.5 miles north of the Flying J, Jerome.
- September 14, Old Court House - 3rd floor, 206 1st Ave. South, Hailey.
- September 16, Burley City Hall, 1401 Overland Avenue, Burley.
"The public comment portion of the rules cycle is when we ask the public if they're on board with the proposed regulation changes," said Doug Megargle, regional fisheries manager. "We've scheduled meetings at various locations around the region to make it easy for folks to come give us their feedback and ask questions. If anglers can't make a meeting they can call, e-mail, stop by the regional office, or complete the online survey (
http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/public/). Bottom line, we want to hear from anglers"
Among some of the ideas that will be presented to the public is a draft version of a new, easier to use regulations format.
"The biggest change, aside from the format itself, will be moving from the traditional rivers and streams general season of May to November to a new season of open all year using exceptions to protect sensitive fisheries," Megargle said. "Other changes being considered include the Malad River and Vinyard Creek (near Twin Falls Reservoir)."
Fish and Game gathered information from the public this spring, submitted proposals to the Idaho Fish and Game Commission, and is now asking the public to provide comment on those proposed rules reviewed by the commission.
The public is encouraged to attend a meeting and make comments about potential proposals or other fishing related topics. Comments can also be sent via email to
MVFishery@idfg.idaho.gov or by phone at 208-324-4359. Deadline for comments is 5 p.m. September 24.
Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Doug Megargle at the Idaho Department of Fish & Game at 208-324-4359 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529 (TDD).
