Contact: Roy Miller, Fisheries, phone: (302) 739-3441
or Craig Shirey, Fisheries, phone: (302) 739-3441

Second Public Hearing To Be Held Feb. 1 on Revisions to Fishing Regulations Affecting Snakeheads and River Herring

The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold a second public hearing to accept additional testimony on revisions to fish stocking practices under the Non-Tidal Fishing Regulations at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1 in the auditorium of the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control building, 89 Kings Highway, Dover.

According to Fisheries Administrator Roy Miller, the Division proposes to add the northern snakehead fish and the blotched snakehead fish to the list of species that are unlawful to transport, purchase, possess, or sell within Delaware. This complements action taken recently by the state of Maryland and previous action taken by the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

The reason for this change is to prevent the purposeful or accidental introduction of this potentially harmful species of fish into Delaware waters. The two species included in the proposed ban are the two most likely to survive and thrive in Delaware freshwaters if released.

In addition, The Division will accept additional testimony and evidence on a proposed new regulation that would set a daily limit of 25 on the take and possession of river herring. Exceptions to this limit would include holders of a valid commercial finfish license, someone with a receipt from someone with a finfish license, or a receipt from a licensed retailer who legally obtained said river herring for resale.

Individuals may present their opinions and evidence on the proposed revisions by writing the Fisheries Section, Division of Fish and Wildlife, 89 Kings Highway, Dover, DE 19901, or by email to roy.miller@state.de.us. The record will remain open for written or email comments until 4:30 p.m., Jan. 14, 2005.

For additional information, contact the Fisheries Section, (302) 739-3441.
 

-30-

Click Here To Return To The Previous Page