Willard Snagging

[DKStroutfitter]

I have fished at the Willard Inlet during the spawn in the past 2 years.
Part of my reason for being there was to see what all the fuss is about.

My friend and I have witnessed a few people trying to keep snagged fish.
We told these people that if they kept the illegally caught fish that we would turn them in.

A few argued with us but did release the fish.
One man refused and we called the DWR.
The DWR did show up and the man was sited for the infraction.

I have seen DWR Officers there in plain cloths and other times in uniform. I have witnessed the DWR watching anglers through binoculars from the road above the inlet.

There are not enough DWR Officers in our area for them to spend all of their time at Willard.
For this reason, it is up to the anglers to be the eyes and ears for them.

I have talked to Chris Penne, a biologist from the DWR about the controversy at the inlet.
Chris has expressed that keeping the inlet open during the spawn will not impact the quality of fishing at Willard Bay.
He went on to say that opening the inlet back up will allow people who fish from the shore the opportunity to catch some Walleye without the need for a boat.
This is his job and I respect his opinion.
[signature]