Proposed regs would protect North Fork Big Creek bull trout

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is proposing many fishing regulation changes across the western half of the state, but the most significant local change clarifies where an angler can and can't fish on the North Fork of the Flathead.

The current regulations prohibit angling at the mouth of Big Creek within a 150-yard radius of the stream or as posted June 1 through Sept. 30. The new regulation takes out the language "as posted" and makes it a 150-yard closure "unless posted a greater distance."

Big Creek, a spawning tributary for endangered bull trout, is closed year-round to fishing. But in recent years, FWP officials claim, anglers have been purposefully fishing for bull trout in North Fork pools near Big Creek. The change allows FWP to broaden the closure area because, depending on water flows, the pools favored by trout change.

Other local changes turn many local "fish for fun ponds" into catch-and-release waters for anyone over 14 years old. Those 14 and under can keep one trout. Local ponds include Dry Bridge Pond, Pine Grove Pond and Shady Lane Pond. Swan and Koocanusa lakes will also become catch and release only for bull trout.

Other proposed changes include a major reduction in the rainbow trout season and daily limit downstream from Libby Dam, allowing only two kokanee over 12 inches per day as part of the 20-fish limit for Little Bitterroot Lake.

Details on the proposed changes, and opportunities to comment, are available for review online at fwp.mt.gov. Click "Proposed Fishing Regulation Changes." Comments must be received by Sept. 19. Send comments by mail to 2012-15 Fishing Regulations, FWP Fisheries Bureau, P.O. Box 200701, Helena MT 59601.