Lots of great things are being done in the Mountain State and our DNR is doing some of that with an awesome new Trout Management Plan. I’ve had the very fortunate opportunity to represent the people of WVAngler at these discussions with a diverse group of individuals. I’ll hit some of the highlights in discussions right now but as always I welcome your feedback as I am a voice for you. Lots of great ideas coming from the Stakeholder Advisory Committee and being sent to the Technical Advisory Committee. This as a whole would be great for everyone lots of possibilities and opportunities in this state to improve on making things better!
Funding, Investment, and Capacity
-Lots of discussions on finding projects from stocking to habitat projects and land access. Working at more ways to generate funding to be able to provide more of these options mentioned.
-Diversifying and Enhancing Public Fishing Access
Need for more access spots and keeping areas cleaned and enhanced.
- Habitat
More habitat wild trout, improved water quality, reconnecting headwaters, and identifying restoration projects. Habitat has been one of the big discussions as you clean the water and improve habitat everyone wins no just the trout and fishing but everything downstream.
-Diversification of Stocked Trout Opportunities
One very big thing was delayed harvest discussions that would give everyone a chance to use the resource. Increased fingerling opportunities. And the increase in events like gold rush which has been good getting kids and others involved. More diversification to possibly extend fishing seasons.
-Enhancing Native and Wild Fisheries
Protecting and enhancing. Working on habitat to enhance fisheries. Understanding the threats they face better not only as managers but fisherman.
-education and youth information
Getting kids more involved in fishing. Better communication with public on things DNR is doing or involved in.more education to the public as a whole on things like fish handling and importance of wild trout.
