New Fishing Proposals Available for Comment

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is proposing numerous changes to fishing rules throughout Idaho, and managers are asking anglers to weigh in. There are only two proposals that would affect fisheries statewide. The first would remove the limits on walleye and northern pike, except in waters that are specifically managed for those species. The second would allow the harvest of rainbow and brook trout during fishing tournaments in some waters. There are also changes proposed to steelhead regulations, including a statewide reduction in steelhead limits during the fall season. Managers are recommending changes to a variety of rules on specific fisheries in every region except the Salmon Region. The proposals are available on the Fish and Game website at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov. Anglers can not only read the proposals, but can also comment on them. Fisheries managers will consider public comments before presenting final proposals to the Fish and Game Commission in November. If you want additional information on any of the proposals, you can contact the Fisheries staff in the Regional or State offices. The new rules will apply to a two-year period beginning January 1, 2006 and ending December 31, 2007.