For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Maureen Wren

Thursday, February 21, 2008 (518) 402-8000


DEC ANNOUNCES PROPOSED FISHING REGULATIONS FOR 2008-2010

Public Encouraged to Review and Comment


New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
Commissioner Pete Grannis today announced proposed changes to freshwater
Fishing regulations to enhance fishing opportunities and protect
Fisheries resources statewide. DEC will be accepting public comments on
The proposals until April 4, 2008.

 

"New York provides some of the best fishing in the nation, and every two
Years DEC modifies existing sportfishing regulations and proposes new
Regulations to help ensure that this remains the case," Commissioner
Grannis said. "I encourage interested anglers to review these proposed
Changes and provide us with their comments."

The proposed regulations are the result of a careful assessment of the
Status of existing fish populations and the desires of anglers utilizing
These resources. This formal review follows discussions held with
Angling interest groups over the past year. Prior to the announcement of
today's proposed regulations, DEC made the regulatory options the agency
Was considering available on the DEC website and took comments. The
Feedback received was integral to developing the regulation changes that
Are now being formally proposed.

To request copies of the regulation proposals contact: Shaun Keeler at
(518) 402-8920, or by e-mail to sxkeeler@gw.dec.state.ny.us . The
Proposals will also be posted on DEC's website at .

Comments on the proposals may be submitted by e-mail to
fishregs@gw.dec.state.ny.us or mailed to Shaun Keeler, New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation, Bureau of Fisheries, 625
Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4753. Final regulations, reflecting public
Comments, will go into effect October 1, 2008.

The following are highlights of the proposed changes:

 

 

Restrict the use of weight on the line, leader, swivels or artificial
Flies used in the Salmon River Fly Fishing only area to reduce snagging
Of salmonids and provide consistency to the Great Lakes regulations.

Refine the allowable fishing tackle that may be used in the special
Regulations fly fishing catch-and-release areas on the Salmon River in
Oswego County to offer an unimpeded traditional fly fishing experience.

Extend the winter "catch-and-release only" black bass season in Suffolk
And Nassau counties to provide additional angling opportunities.
Restrict the use of weight on the line, leader, swivels or artificial
Flies used in the Salmon River Fly Fishing only area to reduce snagging
Of salmonids and provide consistency to the Great Lakes regulations.