NELSON - A two-week restricted fishery for Kootenay Lake Upper West Arm kokanee will be allowed this spring.

The fishery will run from April 1 to 14 inclusive. Anglers are allowed five kokanee daily.

This opening will be the only kokanee harvest permitted in the Upper West Arm during the 2003-04 season. Anglers should disregard the notice on page 46 of the Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis.

Anglers are also asked to participate in a brief catch-and-effort questionnaire. A ministry staff person will be approaching anglers at the lake to conduct a creel census.

For more details on the kokanee fishery or any recreational fishery in the Kootenay region, consult the freshwater fishing regulations synopsis, which is available at government agents and most sporting-goods stores.

Anyone who has evidence of illegal fishing activities can call the toll-free Observe, Record, Report number, 1-800-663-WILD (9453). Callers can remain anonymous.

Contact:

John Bell
Regional Fisheries Biologist
Kootenay Region
250 354-6351