U.P. angler input sought for brook trout research

The Department of Natural Resources announced Tuesday that select rivers across the Upper Peninsula will be part of an angler survey effort starting this spring. The survey is designed to evaluate public response and potential biological effects of an experimental regulation that allows an additional five brook trout to be harvested in specified research areas. Survey information on angler opinions and catch rates will be used to improve future brook trout management in the U.P.

Originally announced in November, the experimental regulation went into effect on April 1, 2013, and applies to segments of the Dead River (Marquette County), Driggs River (Schoolcraft County), East Branch Ontonagon River (Houghton and Iron counties), East Branch Tahquamenon River (Chippewa County) and East Branch Huron River (Baraga and Marquette counties). The regulation’s upstream/downstream boundaries on these rivers are described on pages 52 through 66 of the 2013 Michigan Fishing Guide.

Angler input is being sought through two methods: 1) self-addressed, postage paid survey cards will be distributed by DNR staff at the rivers listed above and also at other rivers chosen as experimental controls or 2) an online survey is available at www.surveymonkey.com/s/brooktroutanglersurvey. Anglers are asked to fill out one card or online survey, per person, per trip. Surveys will be open April 27 through Sept. 30, 2013.

To learn more about this experimental regulation, including area maps, visit the Experimental Regulations for Brook Trout in the Upper Peninsula page on the DNR website.