Montana Fish Report

ODFW will host a series of public meetings to inform anglers of changes to sportfish regulations proposed for 2019.

The changes proposed are part of a multi-year process to simplify the fishing regulations. “To come up with these potential changes, we looked at every water body across the state, trying to develop common regulations, consistent language, and increased fishing opportunities,” said Mike Gauvin, ODFW recreational fisheries program manager.

The first phase was focused on warmwater and trout fishing and became effective in 2016. The current phase is focused on developing more consistent salmon and steelhead seasons, reorganizing zone regulations and clarifying some definitions.

“The majority of the proposed changes for salmon and steelhead regulations are located in the Northwest and Southwest Zones, as we found many opportunities to make small changes to streamline seasons,” said Gauvin.

ODFW staff will discuss the proposed changes and take public comments during the meetings. Comments can also be sent to odfw.commission@state.or.us. Final 2019 Sportfishing Regulations will be adopted by the Fish and Wildlife Commission at their Sept. 14 meeting in Bandon, where public testimony will also be taken.

Meeting dates and locations follow:
Coos Bay (North Bend), June 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m., North Bend Library, 1800 Sherman Ave
Newport, June 6, 6- 7 p.m., Hallmark Resort, 744 SW Elizabeth Street
Tillamook, June 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd Street
Seaside, June 13, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Seaside Convention Center (Seamist Room), 415 1st Ave
Hillsboro, June 14, 7 p.m., Meriwether National Golf Club, 5200 Rood Bridge Road (at NW Steelheaders, Tualatin Valley Chapter Meeting)