DNR To Host Lake Superior Fisheries Management Meeting Oct. 15

BAYFIELD, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will hold an informational public meeting on Thursday, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. to discuss the recommended lake trout quota for WI-2 at the Vaughn Public Library Community Room (502 Main St. W) in Ashland, Wisconsin.

Lake trout are the primary target of recreational anglers in Lake Superior and are the focal species used to manage the commercial fishery. Over the last few years, there have been increased sea lamprey and reduced recruitment of lake trout to the population. In order to maintain a sustainable fishery, a reduction in the recommended quota is necessary.

The recommended reduction to the state allocation is 22%, which will be evenly distributed between the commercial and recreational fisheries. This reduction is anticipated to result in protection for lake trout and allow for the population to rebound.

“Quotas for lake trout are used to maintain sustainable populations and are typically evaluated every three years,” said Dray Carl, DNR Lake Superior Fisheries Biologist. “Recent data suggests that we should update the quotas to maintain a sustainable harvest, and this meeting will allow us to update the public on the surveys we use to monitor lake trout populations and explain the rationale for the updated quota.”

In addition to discussion of the lake trout quota, participants will have the opportunity to engage with DNR staff on other fisheries management topics.

More information on Lake Superior fisheries management is available on the DNR’s Fisheries Webpage.

EVENT DETAILS

What: Public meeting on Lake Superior Fisheries Management 

When: Thursday, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m.

Where: Vaughn Public Library, Community Room
502 Main St. W
Ashland, WI