Pend Oreille Fisheries Meetings Set

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) has scheduled public information meetings for discussion on the future of Lake Pend Oreille fisheries. Meetings are set for Tuesday, January 11 at the Sandpoint Community Hall (204 S. First St.), and Wednesday, January 12 at the Fish and Game Regional office (2750 Kathleen Ave.) in Coeur d'Alene. The meetings will be held from 7-10 pm. Anglers will play an important role in determining the future of the fishery in Lake Pend Oreille. New fishing regulations effective January 1, 2000 are intended to encourage harvest on rainbow and restrict harvest of kokanee from the lake. The new limit for all trout species (including kokanee) is six fish, with no more than two rainbow or two cutthroat. The last Saturday in April through November 30 season for rainbow trout is still in effect. The regulation changes were made before the latest kokanee population estimates were available. New information paints an even bleaker picture than prior data revealed. IDFG wants anglers to be aware of the status of the fisheries in the lake and involved in the decisions impacting the fishery. Will the new regulations be enough to save kokanee? These issues will be discussed at the public information meetings. All anglers interested in Lake Pend Oreille fisheries are encouraged to attend. Anyone with a physical limitation requiring special accommodations to participate in the meetings should contact the IDFG at 769-1414 or the State Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529(TDD) at least two business days prior to the meeting dates.