Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release
For release: February 18, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Bret Preston , Wildlife Resources Section (304) 558-2771 wildlife@wvdnr.gov

Ohio River Fisheries Management Plan

  A revision to the Ohio River Fisheries Management Plan is now available, according to Bret Preston , Assistant Chief of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) Wildlife Resources Section. The original draft was distributed for public comment in December 2004. Following public meetings and receiving comments from the public, DNR staff has revised the plan to reflect the concerns expressed, as well as keeping with the plan's goal of providing enhanced angling opportunities using a sound scientific approach and prudent use of agency funds.

  “The first draft of the plan was developed following five years of extensive studies on the Ohio River and its fisheries,” said Chris O'Bara, DNR Ohio River Fisheries Biologist. “The original plan called for stocking of largemouth bass and smallmouth bass during those years when river conditions are not conducive to spawning success. Additional species to be stocked were walleye, paddlefish, hybrid striped bass, and blue catfish. All of these species provide added fishing opportunities to West Virginia anglers.”

  Other tasks included were the enhancement of river habitat to promote the natural reproduction of Ohio River fishes. A revamping of current angling regulations was also proposed. The revised plan continues to build on these management techniques and actions, but greater effort will be placed on focused stocking of largemouth bass and smallmouth bass following habitat improvements. In addition, the proposed eight-month catch and release regulation on black bass has been revised to only include the months of April and May.

**DNR**