Comments are being accepted until June 13 on proposed regulation changes that would allow more salmon to be harvested and the use of three rods per angler in all waters.

The state Department of Natural Resources is proposing to increase the daily bag limit for salmon from three to five fish. Although the change is expected to have minimal effect on the fishery, DNR fish biologists believe salmon populations are larger than baitfish populations can sustain, and see no reason not to allow more to be taken. Natural mortality has a much larger effect on fish population than angler harvests.

The DNR has also reduced salmon plantings in Lake Michigan.

Also proposed is an extension of the number of rods one angler can use from two to three on all waters. In 2001, the DNR relaxed the rod restriction to allow three per angler in the Great Lakes; the change would allow three rods per angler on all Michigan waters.

The changes could go into effect as early as Apri8l 1, 2009. Comments may be e-mailed to DNR-FISH-3lines@michign.gov or DNR-FISHSalmon-Limits@michigan.gov.

Letters may be sent to Fisheries Division, P.O. Box 30446, Lansing, MI 48909.