Thanks for the invite to…

Thanks for the invite to respond.

I firmly believe that we should follow the more pro active stance of Quebec ( bait fish ban ). The sport fishery is but a fraction of what it was 15 - 20 years ago in the parts of the Ottawa River that I fish. I realize that not just the use of bait fish is responsible, but over harvest and the unethical ( not illegal ) practice of taking fish that are still spawning are also mitigating factors.

A severe lack of MNRF enforcement is also evident. The Management Submission as proposed relies on the honesty and will of the folks that partake in this activity. We all know that human beings be what they are will break the law if there are no consequences.

It is about time that we put the sustainability of the fishery first and foremost. This can only be recognized by a concerted effort from those who benefit from this wonderful pastime. At this point we are probably trying for sustainability. I would certainly like to see it put back to what it was a couple of decades ago. Let's put a smile on the faces of our great great grand kids.

I know I am looking at the pie in the sky as the we have the bait business, outfitters and personal greed to satisfy BEFORE long term enhancement of the fishery.

Thanks again for this opportunity to present this unpopular view, but we are certainly on the slippery slope in maintaining what we have.

Best Regards

[Original Comment ID: 209934]