Michigan’s DNR Proposes New Fishing Regulations
May 21, 2008
The mention of new fishing guidelines always conjures up a a feeling of “Oh, great! What can’t we do now?” That may not be the case in Michigan–
Michigan’s DNR is proposing to up the number of fishing rods allowed by one angler. For over 80 years, Michigan’s limit of two rods per angler has been enforced. They are now proposing to up that limit to three. On a good day, two rods can be to many, especially if you are fishing for panfish or even bass and salmon, depending on where you go. On other days you could have a whole Cabelas store at your disposal and still catch little more than a mosquito bite (or twenty).
Michigan’s DNR are currently looking for public input on this issue and want to hear what you think.
This information is coming from Spinal Column Online. (Yes, I know it’s a weird name–but they offer up a great article on all of this.)
Currently, the number of lines (rods) an angler may use on most waters is limited to two. Several years ago, however, angler groups worked with the Legislature to allow three lines while in the act of trolling for trout and salmon in lakes Michigan, Huron or Superior. This discrepancy reportedly has caused confusion among anglers and has created law enforcement problems.
Not sure what kind of problems this has caused for law enforcement other than people suggesting they did not know the law, which is not an excuse, but none the less…
If Michigan does indeed change it’s current policies in regards to the “Rule of Two” rods, I could see this being a positive effort for most people who partake in fishing as an activity. On the one hand, more poles will be bought and more tackle will be purchased to support the new regulation. On the other, you will now have the opportunity to fish with three rods, perhaps bringing in a better catch. Then again, this may not help you out at all.
On the downside, it is noted that positions that support quite a few anglers at one time, such as your favorite pier or fishing hole, could possibly get a bit more crowded with anglers taking up more space. I, personally have never found that to be a problem. I go where few venture–sometimes into the lake or river, itself, but usually I look for those easily accessed out-of-the-way locations that 90% of the time will be empty.
What are your thoughts on this issue?
By the way, I have to give my home state of Indiana some credit. It was mentioned in the article, over on Spinal Column Online, that Indiana has allowed three-pole fishing for quite some time. Now, if they could only figure out a way give us all a third arm! Actually, make it four-you have to have a beer hand-
Photo Courtesy of Water and Woods Magazine
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Written by Jason A. Hendricks · Filed Under fishing |
Michigan, as you know, is my home state, and I honestly have no problem with allowing three lines in the water at one time.
I have a hard enough time keeping track of two, so I probably will never use three, but if someone can handle it, I say go for it!
Thanks for stopping by my blog by the way. I appreciate it!
It really makes no difference to me, as well. Get me, my wife, and the two kids (at home) out there and we have plenty of opportunity..haha and usually a pretty good catch.
MIchigan is my home state as well. I wouldn’t have any problem with allowing three lines, although I personally will stick to one. After all, I can only untangle one line at a time from a pile of brush.
Good Point, Kristine, I personally love the “Swim and Retreive” method.