WDFW invites public comment on proposal to open Stevens County’s Deer Lake to year-round fishing

SPOKANE – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is hosting a virtual public meeting to discuss potentially opening Deer Lake in Stevens County to year-round fishing.

The current fishing season for Deer Lake is from Mar. 1 to Nov. 30. At the December 2023 Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting, Commissioners approved a citizen-submitted petition to begin rule making to open the lake to fishing year-round. With an increase in public interest in ice fishing in recent years, this change could provide additional outdoor recreation opportunities and could also negatively impact the quality of the lake trout (mackinaw) fishery.

“In addition to considering opening the lake to a year-round fishing season, staff will also consider a daily size and number limit for mackinaw to put in place measures intended to conserve a quality mackinaw fishery,” said Region 1 Fish Program Manager Chris Donley.

In order to gather public input on the proposal, WDFW will host a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024 from 6-8 p.m. The meeting will include a short presentation, a question-and-answer session, and time for members of the public to share their thoughts. Only input on Deer Lake will be accepted. To attend the meeting, please register in advance. Once registered, an email will be sent to each participant with information on how to join the webinar.

More information on this proposed rule change is on the Deer Lake Fishing Regulations rule making web page. Public comment on the proposal can also be submitted by sending an email to deerlakefishing@publicinput.com or by leaving a voicemail message at 855-925-2801 and entering project code #3935. Comments will be accepted until the end of the comment period on January 28, 2024. All members of the public are invited to share their perspective and participate in WDFW public feedback opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, veteran status, or basis of disability.

Public comment can also be provided to the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission on the topic at the Commission’s January meeting. The Commission is expected to make a decision on the proposal during a meeting in February.
 

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.