DWR outlines proposed fishing regulation changes; statewide angler survey to guide final decisions

Staff reviewed proposed regulation changes and explained the next engagement step: a random survey of approximately 25,000 licensed anglers that will guide whether proposed adjustments proceed. Key points presented by staff:

- Pelican Lake: propose statewide bluegill limit of 50 and remove a limit on black bullhead (no limit).
- Starvation Reservoir: add a spawning-season closure for spear fishing walleye (aligns closure dates with existing bass closures); other slot-limit refinements under consideration.
- Hostetler: staff are continuing work on a walleye slot/harvest proposal that would protect medium-sized fish (details under refinement).
- Willard Bay: modeling suggests a six-walleye daily limit with minimum size 18 inches and restrictions on fish over 24 inches to protect reproduction and growth.
- Lake Powell: region recommends allowing setline fishing in specified areas, permitting bowfishing for striped bass, and adjusting smallmouth bass regulations; region argued harvest need in that system.
- Boulder Mountains (Oak Creek, Donkey Lake): staff proposed lowering the trout possession limit (options under consideration: four or eight trout) and adjusting closure dates to better align with access and enforcement needs.

Staff said many items were refined after consultation with regional biologists, law enforcement and stakeholder groups (UAC, Rocky Mountain Anglers and others). The proposed changes will be packaged for the statewide angler survey and then considered in subsequent rulemaking steps; staff invited feedback before the survey goes live.