In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant regulatory changes for fishing at Flaming Gorge Reservoir, aimed at enhancing the angling experience for Utah's fishermen. The proposed changes, set to take effect in 2025, are the result of nearly eight years of collaboration between Utah's and Wyoming's game and fish departments.

The primary goal of these changes is to establish greater consistency in fishing regulations across state lines, which officials believe will reduce confusion among anglers and minimize violations. Utah is proposing six changes, while Wyoming will implement three, reflecting a negotiation process that has been ongoing for years.

Key points of discussion included the methodology behind the proposed regulations, which are largely driven by angler surveys and biological assessments of fish populations. Officials emphasized that while public input is considered, the foundation of these proposals is based on scientific data collected through extensive surveys and sampling.

One notable change discussed was the lifting of the ice hole size limitation, which currently stands at 18 inches in Utah. This adjustment aligns Utah's regulations with Wyoming's, where no such restriction exists. Officials reported that Wyoming has not encountered any safety issues related to the absence of a size limit, attributing potential dangers more to environmental factors like pressure ridges.

Concerns were raised regarding the impact of spear fishing on the lake trout population, particularly with the introduction of artificial light for harvesting. Officials reassured attendees that while spear fishermen would be allowed to take trophy lake trout, the overall population is robust enough to withstand this change, given the high number of smaller lake trout present.

The meeting concluded with a call for further questions and discussions, as officials expressed their enthusiasm for the proposed changes and their potential to improve the fishing experience at Flaming Gorge Reservoir.