Species covered in proposed rule • Marine Bottomfish
Rule to Change: 30 fathom restriction for lingcod/protection of canary and yellow eye rockfish
New Rule Proposal: Let recreational fisherman fish with pipe jibs/norweigan jigs for deep water lingcod.
Why the change is needed: In my experience, the yellow eye and canary rockfish do not strike these jigs as they would other traditional bottomfish lures or bait. This rule change would also help subdue one of the main preditors of the the protected rockfish. I am sure the big deep water lings prey and eat a lot of these protected bottomfish. If allowed to target the lingcod with a lure specific to lingcod then it would provide the state with additional funds (create a lingcod punch card to keep track) and it would subdue a preditor of the yellow eye and canary.
Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change: Heather Reed, (360) 249-4628 ext. 202
Describe their support and/or concerns:
She supported this idea, but thought there would have to be a little research to prove this theory.
Submitted by: CONRAD, WILLIAM I — OLALLA, WA
Date submitted: 04/26/2012
WDFW Rule Proposal Recommendation
Not Recommended for further consideration Reference ID: DFW565962
This rule would not meet the conservation goals needed for rockfish species. Lingcod seasons have been adjusted to account for increased fishing effort for lingcod and a stable or decreasing number of lingcod available for harvest.
Online Public Comments(1 comments)
SPENCER, MAARTEN November 26, 2012 LACEY, WA Comments: I think this would be a great idea. It would eliminate the by-catch of yellow eye and canaries. It would keep sport fisherman out fishing without hurting other species, plus reduce some numbers of lingcod which also prey on bottom fish.
