DNR Seeking Comments on Fish Stocking

Anglers and others are invited to provide feedback on whether to raise, lower or keep Lake Michigan salmon and trout stocking numbers the same in 2018 and beyond. The comment period is open and runs through Sept. 30. “We are seeking general input about angler success in 2017 and whether anglers feel we have the appropriate number of salmon and trout stocked in the lake to provide a sustainable fishery into the future,” said Brad Eggold, Great Lakes District fisheries supervisor.

As part of efforts to address lake-wide changes in the food web, DNR and natural resources managers in surrounding states have worked cooperatively to develop stocking strategies that support a balance in the ratio of predators to prey. DNR seeks to pursue an approach that maintains a diverse fishery and maximizes opportunities for anglers while adjusting stocking to account for lower levels of available prey species such as alewives. Background information, including a copy of the presentation at an Aug. 30 Lake Michigan Fisheries Forum meeting, can be found by visiting the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov and searching “Lake Michigan salmon and trout meetings 2017.” To provide comments on the information, send an email to [email protected] or by mail to Bradley T. Eggold, Wisconsin DNR, UWM – GLRF – SFS, 600 E. Greenfield Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53204.