FWP seeks comment on ice-fishing derbies

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking public comment on fishing contests proposed for the winter season of 2013-2014.

Participants must comply with state fishing regulations, including daily and possession limits. Most contests require catch-and-release fishing and participants in these contests may not keep any fish.

Applications for contests may be approved, denied or approved with conditions. Conditions placed on contests may help to minimize fish mortality, regulate harvest, reduce user conflicts, or require additional access site maintenance when needed.

Information on the proposed derbies can be obtained by calling 406-444-2449 or by e-mailing jlwindon@mt.gov.

Send comments to FWP Fisheries Bureau, Attn: Public Comment on Fishing Derbies, P.O. Box 200701, Helena MT 59620-0701 or e-mail them to jlwindon@mt.gov. Deadline is Aug. 21.

Proposed ice fishing derbies in Northwest Montana, Region 1, for 2013-2014 include:

Dec. 28 — Sunriser Lions Smith Lake Family Fishing Derby

Jan. 25 — The Perch Assault, Smith Lake

Jan. 25-26 — Fisher River Valley Winter Fishing Derby, Thompson Lakes

Feb. 1-2 — The 11th annual Perch Pounder, around Region 1

Feb. 8 — The Lodge at McGregor Lake Annual Fishing Derby

Feb. 15 — The 14th annual Snappy Sport Senter derby at Lake Mary Ronan

Feb. 15 — Ryan Wagner Memorial Ice Fishing Derby, Murphy Lake

Feb. 22 — Canyon Kids Christmas Fun Lion Lake Fishing Derby

Feb. 22 — The Perch Assault, Upper Thompson Lake

March 1-2 — The third annual Bitterroot Bash at Bitterroot Lake

March 8 — The Perch Assault, Lake Mary Ronan