WA 2004 sturgeon tag?

[TonTo]

Does any body know anything about the non-removable tags that suposeably will be issued by the WDFW in 2004 for sturgeon kept?I can see how this could discourage upgrading or even the use of erasable ink,but this is the first I've heard of it and was just curious.

Beginning April 1, under current regulations, Washington anglers will be limited to five sturgeon per year. Sturgeon anglers will be required to purchase a set of five, non-removable tags, to mark the fish that they keep, in an effort to discourage upgrading. The fee for these tags will be $3.50, according to a recent DFW news release.
Chuck Downer Longview Daily News

<font size="2" face="verdana,arial,helvetica">Downers Column

[ 12-27-2003, 01:07 AM: Message edited by: TonTo ]

[glowball]

Wow hadn't heard that.

[Oly Angler]

This was a reg proposal in the 2004-5 reg proposal package. At the Pt. Townsend meeting the Department stated that it was backing off until there was a consensus with Oregon. If they are choosing to implement it, this is news to me. The only change I am aware of is to a 5 fish/year limit. I will be in contact with WDFW Monday and will discuss this issue with them. As far as I know the Commission has not given the required direction to the Department to implement this proposal. Also remember, the reg package will be voted on by the Commission in Feb. The only way that it could be implemented is through emergency rule by the Commission. I have not seen or heard anything on this issue. Will let you know if I find any truth to the matter.