MNR Regulation Changes for Walleye

[walleyehunter]

Disappearing walleye have long been a concern of conservationists and fisherman alike, with efforts coming from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and anglers to limit catches and protect spawning areas.

The ministry is now looking to introduce tougher restrictions as they step up the efforts to save the walleye.

Currently, there is a four-fish limit, with only one allowed to be over 46 cm, in the eastern Ontario area.

New regulations would limit sport fishermen to four fish and those with a conservation licence to two. Size restrictions would be either 35-45 cm or 40-50, depending on which of two proposed options are selected.

Changes would come into effect in 2013.

The ministry is hosting three open houses to allow eastern Ontairo residents to comment on the proposed changes.

The ministry rationale is that either option will protect large females, which are important to ensuring an increased population as they produce the most eggs and have a higher survival rate.

The ministry is also proposing changes to the bass fishing regulations in an effort to “maintain the current high quality bass fishery suppoted by naturally reproducing populations.”

Earlier springs and warmer lakes have resulted in an earlier spawning date, so the ministry is looking to open bass fishing a week earlier for 2013.

This would mean bass season would run from the third Saturday in June until Dec. 15, rather than the fourth Saturday in June to Nov. 30.

The ministry says the earlier fishing season isn’t likely to largely affect the bass population as larger males spawn earlier, contribute more offspring and guard the nest better.

Extending the fishing season would provide more angling opportunities and economic opportunities, a ministry release said, without impacting the population that much as fewer anglers fish at that time of year.

The public information meetings will be held at the Northbrook Lions Club March 19, Carleton Place Legion March 21 and Westport Legion March 23. All meetings are from 6-9 p.m.

[Longshank]

Probably just me..........but I don't get it.....

The lower size proposal completely contradicts their own statement of large female walleye being best spawners....(which is also up for debate)

[happyhooker]

stop the natives from spearing and netting

cheers hooer

[NorthernAngler]

Great more restrictions and smaller limits. Best place to get a feed of walleye is at the grocery store.

[walleyehunter]

I support the changes for reduced harvest by introducing a slot. The walleye fishing in that area is poor and this may bring it back.