DWR Response...Dead Walleyes at Willard

[perchound]

Thanks tubedude and Mr. Penn for taking the time to help all of us to understand what is going on at Willard. This fishery is very important to a lot of us because we have spent a life time of fishing it. However, the issue with the inlet channel is still a huge problem for a lot of us. I still can't see the justification for opening it during the spawn, we don't allow fishing the tributaries that Kokenee spawn in so why Willard. This is to simply protect the species while they complete their reproduction process. There is plenty of access to fish Willard during the walleye spawn without interfering with the inlet channel where the walleye are stacked like a cord of wood during this time. These walleye are so vulnerable at this time that it just isn't fair for them, that is why fishermen are able to snag and bag so easily. The people that want the inlet channel open need to realize that these walleye are in there for a reason and closer at this time(March 1st thru May 31st) is important to the species. Closer of the inlet channel is a no brainer if we as sportsman and fishermen have any respect and appreciation for the walleye in Willard.
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