I don't want to start out a new topic with any intention of starting controversy with the lake netting, but I would like to honestly know the answer to this question. Every year the DNR or some other group involved decides on the limits and total pounds taken from the lake. I was wondering why the netting never gets adjusted, at least not down, when the numbers require fishermen to reduce allotments? If this is a partnership on the management of the lake, why doesn't both sides give to make up for the numbers?
For example, last fall the DNR said that their nets were the lowest in many years and they were concerned about the population. With that, they said that limits may have to be reduced greatly to protect the fishery. Why does that not affect the netting allotment like it does for the fishermen?
Again, please don't take this as any racial question!! I just want to understand this as well as many other people that I know that fish this great lake. I have no problem sharing the resource as long as it is shared fairly and understandably.
Don't quote me but, I believe I read that rarely does the tribe take their full allotment, same with the sportfishers. Valid questions though... maybe the slot could be adjusted accordingly.
Tribal harvest was set by the courts, not biologists. That is why they determine a safe harvest level, minus Tribal harvest, and then anglers get a shot at the rest. This was my understanding.
