The new rules raise the minimum size on catfish from 10 to 13 inches and limit the number of large catfishthat can be taken — no more than one each per day of channel catfish at least 28 inches long, blue catfish at least 35 inches long, and flathead catfish at least 35 inches long.
The changes apply to both commercial fishing and sport fishing on lakes, reservoirs, streams, and rivers, including the Ohio River.
The DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife proposed the changes in order to increase survival of younger catfishand ensure continued large or “trophy” catfish opportunities for both sport and commercial fishing. Largercatfish also have higher reproductive potential and can help control populations of forage species such as gizzard shad and Asian carp.
The Commission granted preliminary approval to the rule changes in November, after a public comment period that included one public hearing. The rule changes will not be in effect until approved by the Attorney General’s Office and Governor’s Office and published in the Indiana Register.
The Commission granted preliminary approval to the rule changes in November, after a public comment period that included one public hearing. The rule changes will not be in effect until approved by the Attorney General’s Office and Governor’s Office and published in the Indiana Register.
