Headlines From The Outdoors

DNRE Fisheries Division seeks input/nominations for Gear Restricted stream category

Attention Anglers: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources & Environment (DNRE) Fisheries Division is now soliciting public recommendations for sections of streams to be considered as "candidates" for possible "Gear Restricted" waters.

In an attempt to further streamline fishing regulations, the Department recently reclassified trout streams with differing gear restrictions (Type 5, 6, and 7 streams) into a single "Gear Restricted" category. While Michigan currently has 97 miles of streams designated where only artificial lures may be used, state law allows for up to 212 miles to be designated under this category.

DNRE Fisheries Division Chief Kelley Smith said that the new category simplifies the fishing regulation framework and will provide more flexibility for protecting trout populations while also creating diverse fishing opportunities. "With this change, we're ready to work with trout anglers to review appropriate regulations for specific streams," Smith said.

As a result, the Fisheries Division is now seeking public input on the regulations and nominations for additional waters for the Gear Restricted category through February 12, 2010. The DNRE Coldwater Regulations Steering Committee, of which MUCC is a member, will review all comments and provide proposals for public comment before any regulation changes are made and sent to DNRE Director Rebecca Humphries this fall.

Anglers must submit nominations by February 12, 2010 to dnr-gearrestricted@michigan.gov. Rationale for nominations should be provided and details should be specific, including information about stream sections and road/bridge/landmark boundaries where possible. 

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