Panel may add hunting permits
OLYMPIA — Washington may boost significantly the number of multiple-season hunting permits issued annually for deer and elk.
The state Fish and Wildlife Commission will decide on Friday whether to increase the numbers from 4,000 deer permits to 8,500 and from 850 elk permits to 1,250.
Multiple-season permits allow hunters to hunt for deer or elk during all general hunting seasons, rather than having to choose among archery, muzzleloader or modern firearm seasons.
Data shows the wider range of options increases a hunter’s chance of success in the field.
State wildlife managers say increasing the permit levels will not be a risk to deer and elk. Fees generated by applicants for a higher number of permits would be used to expand efforts to prevent property damage caused by wildlife.
The commission is scheduled to address the multiple-season permits beginning at 1:30 p.m.
Also on Friday, the commission will review the state’s sturgeon management policy. That is on the agenda for about 4 p.m.
On Saturday, a public hearing will begin at 8:30 a.m. on minor changes to the state’s sport-fishing rules.
Steelhead contest on through Jan. 31
WOODLAND — Entries will be accepted through Jan. 31 in Harper’s Tackle & Outdoor steelhead fishing contest.
Anglers who bring in a fresh gutted and gilled steelhead will have an opportunity to win gift certificates. The heaviest steelhead will earn the angler a fishing rod.
The store is at 267 Millard Ave.
Study under way in Bonneville pool
CASCADE LOCKS — Tribal fishermen under contract to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will be pulling gillnets and tagging sturgeon through mid-January in the Bonneville pool of the Columbia River.
Anglers are asked to steer clear of the research activities. Crews are on the water on weekdays.
The data collection was scheduled for completion by Jan. 1, but is taking about two weeks longer than expected, said Tucker Jones, Oregon sturgeon research project leader.
Free fly-tying advice offered
PORTLAND — Free clinics on fly-tying and related topics will be offered at 10 a.m. Saturdays through April 21 at Northwest Flyfishing Outfitters, 10910 N.E. Halsey St.
This Saturday, guide Matt McCrary will demonstrate how to tie steelhead tube flies. On Jan. 14, Jason Osborn will tie shanked winter steelhead flies and on Jan. 21 Dave McCoy from Emerald Waters Guide Service will tell about fishing in Puget Sound.
