Proposed fishing regulations to be reconsidered by ODFW Commission
Thursday, August 21, 2008 2:44 PM PDT
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
SALEM ” Anglers will have a final opportunity to comment on the proposed 2009-2012 angling regulations at the next meeting of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission on Friday, Sept. 19, 2008 in Forest Grove.
At that meeting, the Commission will formally adopt or decline to adopt each of the nearly 350 angling regulation changes that were proposed by members of the public or ODFW staff.
“We want to make sure members of the angling community know that these proposals are being reconsidered and that there’s still an opportunity for public comment,” he said.
Perhaps the most contentious proposal, labeled 132P, would restrict trout angling to catch-and-release only for unmarked trout in all rivers and streams in the Northwest and Southwest Zones.
It also would prohibit the use of bait while trout fishing. Currently, rivers north of the Salmon River in the Northwest Zone are restricted to catch-and-release by Zone Regulations.
Sponsors of the proposed rule argue it will help protect sea-run cutthroat trout.
However, ODFW has opposed this regulation change as biologically unnecessary, and because it would significantly limit dispersed trout fishing opportunities and eliminate opportunities to retain resident cutthroat, rainbow and even introduced brook trout.
“Our biologists have said the cutthroat trout populations in coastal streams and rivers are healthy and can sustain limited harvest,” Messmer said.
Messmer said rivers and streams are great fisheries, and being able to keep a fish is important to many new anglers, especially youth.
The Commission decided to reconsider the proposal, in part, because of vocal support at the August Commission meeting.
Several people testifying supported the proposal as a way to minimize the negative impacts of angling on wild fish.
The Commission will hear public testimony at the September meeting.
