NEWPORT, Ore.— The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking input from recreational anglers to help shape the 2017 Pacific halibut and 2018 and 2019-2020 bottomfish seasons.
Anglers are encouraged to participate in the season-setting process by attending one of four public meetings in late July. “It is important that we hear from a wide range of anglers before making decisions,” said ODFW Recreational Halibut and Bottomfish Project Leader Lynn Mattes.
The meetings are:
- Tuesday, July 25, 6-8 p.m. in Newport at the Marine Resources Program office, 2040 SE Marine Science Dr. This meeting will also be webcast; see details below.
- Wednesday, July 26, 6-8 p.m. in Salem at ODFW Headquarters (4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE) in the Commission Room.
- Monday, July 31, 7-9 p.m. in Brookings at the Best Western Beachfront Inn (note time is different than the other meetings).
- Tuesday, Aug. 1, 6-8 p.m. in North Bend at the Public Library.
Anglers who wish to provide input but cannot attend a meeting in person or via webcast can contact Lynn Mattes at (541) 867-4741 ext. 237, or lynn.mattes@state.or.us or Maggie Sommer at (541) 867-4741 ext. 227 or Maggie.sommer@state.or.us. Background information will be posted on the ODFW sport bottomfish and sport halibut webpages early next week.
