The new regulations address bass identification issues related to the introduction of Alabama Bass and their hybridization with native Tennessee bass. Smallmouth bass, Alabama bass, and spotted bass will now fall under the same regulations for each reservoir to reduce confusion over hybrid identification. The Commission also amended the Sport Fish proclamation by reducing the daily creel limit for crappie from 30 to 20 on Reelfoot Lake.
Changes were approved for several TWRA agency lakes to better manage sport fish species. The smallmouth regulation on Tellico River was adjusted to statewide regulations.
These changes will take effect on Aug. For commercial fishing, the Commission amended a proposal to increase the mesh size for gillnets used in paddlefish harvest. In the season, commercial fishermen will be allowed six nets of 7 inches and six of 6 inches, with a full transition to 7 inches for all 12 nets starting Aug.
Additionally, the paddlefish season for Kentucky Lake will end on March 31, and the commercial license purchase date will change to July 1. They were honored for their years of service. The Commission elected new officers for the term. Chris Devaney is the new chairman, moving up from vice chairman, Greg Davenport is the new vice chairman, and Rhonda Moody is the new secretary.
As Northern Kentuckians are reporting more and more sightings of coyotes in their neighborhoods, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources says that coyotes are now seen in every county of the state β and that increased sightings are normal in winter and spring.
