NH may ban fish tagging

On December 6 the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department will host a public hearing on two new fishing rules.

The first rule would set up a free ice-fishing day each winter. New Hampshire already holds a free fishing day each June.

The second rule would make it illegal to tag, fin clip, or otherwise mark freshwater fish during catch and release fishing, unless you have permission from the Executive Director of the Fish and Game Department.

Anglers and scientists have been tagging fish for decades as a way to track the health and movement of fish populations.

However, improper tagging or marking can kill fish. Tagging and marking by recreational fishers can also interfere with state-sponsored studies that involve tagging.

Some recreational fishers may oppose the new rule because tagging can be a fun and useful tool for fishers tracking their catch.

Other states have programs that invite the public to participate in tagging and reporting tagged fish.

The hearing will take place at 1:30 p.m. on December 6 at the N.H. Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH.

Do you think New Hampshire should ban fish tagging? Let us know in the comments.