DEC invites public comments on proposed 2020 regulations for Great Lakes fishing

Anglers encouraged to review and comment to help continue improving region’s fishery

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is seeking angler feedback on proposed fishing regulation changes for New York’s Great Lakes. The proposed changes are designed to safeguard and expand certain fish populations while also enhancing anglers’ continued enjoyment of one of the state’s premier fisheries. The majority of the proposals are a direct result of DEC’s work with anglers during the past year to identify desired outcomes for Lake Ontario’s fishery.

Potential regulation changes include:

•Extending the open season for lake trout and decreasing the daily creel limit for rainbow trout/steelhead on Lake Ontario and the Lower Niagara River; 

•Decreasing the brown trout daily creel limit and increasing the minimum size limit for rainbow trout/steelhead on Lake Ontario tributaries; and

•Eliminating a special Lake Erie tributary regulation now deemed unnecessary in a continuing effort to simplify New York fishing regulations.

Following a review of public comments received and further evaluation this winter, DEC may advance these proposals for formal adoption in 2020. DEC welcomes and encourages feedback on the regulation changes currently under consideration.

To view these proposals and provide input, visit DEC’s website. Comments will be accepted through Feb. 28. Comments and questions can also be directed to Steve LaPan, Great Lakes fisheries section head, at: New York State DEC, P.O. Box 292, Cape Vincent, NY 13618.