An important Kentucky Fish and Wildlife committee meeting including catfish regulations is coming on August 17, 2018 at 8:30 AM EDT in Frankfort, KY. If you are able to attend be advised that the location is currently in limbo as they look for a larger venue. The Committee will consider a number of issues related to catfishing. Keep an eye on Facebook for the location once determined.
The proposals to be considered are the result of a workgroup that included two catfish anglers, two paylake reps, two commercial fishing reps, state legislators, and KDFWR staff and Commissioners. The goal of the workgroup was to find common ground between the different entities. The agenda below includes a summary of the proposals that were worked out by the group.
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OVERALL AGENDA
Administration
Welcome: Acting Commissioner Frank Jemley, III
I. Discussion Item: Monthly Financial Reports April, May, June 2018 Administration, Education & Policy Committee
Law Enforcement Division
I. Update Item: Organizational Strategy for Law Enforcement Division
II. Discussion Item: Modification of 301 KAR 2:030, Commercial Guide License
Wildlife Committee
I. Update Item: Elk Population Model
Fisheries Committee
I. Discussion Item: Access Structures on Buffer Property of Department Owned Lakes
II. Discussion Item: Proposal to Create a Special Non- Resident Commercial License Fee for Participants of the Asian Carp Harvest Program
III. Discussion Item: Pay Lakes Regulation Proposals
- Limit number of paylakes in KY that stock trophy fish to 35 total.
- Bring accountability to the process by requiring documentation of quantity, origin, and mortality of trophy stocked fish.
- Limit stockings to 750 pounds per pond 3 times per year.
IV. Discussion Item: Regulation Proposals for Catfish Tournaments on the Ohio River
- Tournament Directors will educate themselves on best handling practices and keep detailed records to supply to KDFWR.
- For events with 50+ boats a permit is needed at a cost of $100.
V. Discussion Item: Commercial Fishing Regulation Proposals for Ohio River Adjourn
- Limit permits of 4 over 40 below Cannelton to 15 total.
- All trophy fish harvested must now be tagged.
- Commercial anglers fishing Ohio River must now call and let law enforcement know the dates they are going out and ramps they are using so their harvest can easily and randomly be checked.
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Commissioners will hear proposals on the issues and the public will be able to comment. A movement is underway to get as many catfish anglers as possible to the meeting to let their voices be heard. A large number of catfish anglers at this meeting will show evidence of just how serious the issues are to the catfish community.
If you cannot attend the meeting the best bet is to write or email your district Commission member about your thoughts and concerns on the topic and he can bring your comments to the meetings. If you do not know your district Commissioner you can find him by clicking here.
A favorable vote at this stage of the process will move the proposals to the next full commissioners’ meeting.
“Many anglers have worked hard for many years attempting to strengthen regulations surrounding catfish conservation,” stated workgroup member, Scott Cress. “We are presented with a rare opportunity to make our voices heard and ask all interested parties to attend this important meeting.”
