During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding proposed changes to fishing regulations in Utah, particularly focusing on walleye and largemouth bass populations.

Ken Strong, representing the United Parcel Service and the Utah Anglers Coalition, voiced strong opposition to the regulation allowing night spearfishing with artificial lights. He argued that this practice could lead to overexploitation of walleye populations, especially in areas like Deer Creek and Starvation, where large female walleye gather in predictable locations. Strong proposed a compromise to close these waters to spearfishing from March 1 through May 15, emphasizing the need for better protection of walleye, similar to existing protections for bass and trout.

Jackson Hink, co-founder of the outdoor promotion company \"Get Out and Play,\" expressed concerns about proposed changes to bass harvesting limits at several reservoirs, including Gunlock, Sand Hollow, and Quail Creek. He warned that allowing the harvest of larger fish could jeopardize the genetic diversity and health of the bass populations. Hink highlighted the importance of preserving desirable genetic traits through selective breeding and referenced successful programs in other states, such as Texas's Share Lunker program, which aims to enhance bass populations through strategic breeding.

Both speakers underscored the need for careful management of fish populations to ensure sustainable fishing practices in Utah, advocating for regulations that protect the state's aquatic resources. The discussions reflect a growing awareness among anglers and stakeholders about the long-term implications of fishing regulations on local ecosystems.