Madison River Management

[ScottP]

Looks like there may be some changes coming


http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-and-...ec66976586.html

Regards,
Scott

[DG]

The expression "cumulative effects" springs to mind. 218 thousand angler-days per year, how many times does each fish get caught? Drift boat hatches also spring to mind. This is why I try to fish it in howling blizzards midweek.

[LadyFisher]

I thought some of the 'angler hours' were a bit scary as well. We have the privilege of fishing some of these places at off times but sitting on the Yellowstone watching the driftboat parade or seeing the frustration of anglers trying to get a spot in the line to launch their boat is getting bizarre. With the attitude of some of the less courteous anglers it can be downright frightening.

[Silver Creek]

Are they going to manage just the float boats?

[loufly]

The problem is that too many anglers think of Montana, or at least the rivers of the West are the end all be all fly fishing destinations. How about a little respect for the residents of those states and back off a little. Who fills up most guides boats? Stay home and be realistic about who is causing the congestion.

[crook33]

I just recieved this in an e-mail message





MADISON RIVER RECREATION PLANNING UPDATE:

PUBLIC MEETINGS SET, CITIZEN ADVISORS SOUGHT

BOZEMAN—Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will host four public meetings in the upcoming months as the first step towards developing a recreation management plan for the Madison River. FWP is seeking input on how the public views recreational use on the river. This information will be used in the preparation of a draft management plan, which will then be circulated for additional public comment. The goal of the plan is to help preserve the quality of recreational experiences and protect natural resources.FWP is also seeking applicants to serve on a citizen advisory committee that will be asked to develop recommendations for managing recreation on the Madison River. The committee application form and information about the planning process are available on the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov/recreation/management/madison/default.html. Applications are due by March 16, 2012.
The Madison River is highly valued for the quality of its recreation opportunities and is often the most heavily fished river in the state. Due to this popularity, concerns have been raised about congestion on the water and at access sites, as well as social conflict between different user groups.The scheduled public meetings are as follows:Ennis, Wednesday, February 15, 6-8PM at the Ennis Middle School Bozeman, Thursday, February 16, 6-8 PM at the Comfort InnWest Yellowstone, Tuesday, February 28, 6-8 PM at the Holiday InnWhitehall, Thursday, March 1, 6-8PM at the Whitehall High SchoolIf you are not able to attend one of the scheduled meetings you may complete an online survey at fwp.mt.gov/recreation/management/madison/default.html or comment by sending an email to mrrp@mt.gov. Comments will be accepted throughout the planning process.For additional information on the Madison River Recreational Plan, please visit the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov/recreation/management/madison/default.html. Any questions may be directed to the River Recreation Manager, Cheryl Morris, at 406-994-6359.

-FWP-

[chewydog]

The problem is that too many anglers think of Montana, or at least the rivers of the West are the end all be all fly fishing destinations. How about a little respect for the residents of those states and back off a little. Who fills up most guides boats? Stay home and be realistic about who is causing the congestion.

Yeah, we'll all stay home and see how you're state tourist dollars dry up. Sure every outfitter would love that. If you think the boats are filled by locals you need to get out more.