Need Clarification

[Big Al]

Boehr,
Is it legal to target an out of season species as long as you release everything you catch? I'm just wondering because I want to go pike fishing at ice out but that usually happens before the season opens. Big Al

[boehr]

No, not legal. The definition in the sport fishing law of take is covered by MCL 324.48702a(1)(b) "Take" and "taking" mean to fish for..., catch,...any species of fish..., regulated by this part, or to attempt to engage in any such activity.

Obviously, the burden of proof is on the state to prove that any person is targeting or attempting to take fish that is not in season.



[This message has been edited by boehr (edited 02-07-2001).]

[Big Al]

Thanks Boehr I guess I'll have to wait until the season opens, it's pretty hard to say I'm fishing for something else when I'm using the biggest ugliest fly that I can dream up and bass and walleye season is still closed. Big Al

[ESOX]

Big Al; There are a number of waters with Year round Northern Seasons. Good Luck!