LA PLATA, Md. (May 13, 2010) — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Service will hold an open forum for largemouth and smallmouth bass anglers at 6:30 p.m. June 3 in the marina services building at Smallwood State Park in Marbury near La Plata. The purpose of the forum is to discuss current fish population information and catch statistics and to explore present concerns about the fishery.
“We are soliciting thoughts on black bass fishing from avid anglers. In particular, we want to hear what they think about continuing the use of fish sanctuaries in Chicamuxen Creek and perhaps expanding the concept to discreet areas of the Upper Chesapeake Bay,” said DNR Fisheries Service Tidal Bass Manager Joe Love. “We’re also hoping to trade thoughts on black bass handling techniques as we enter warmer days when the stress on fish that are caught and released increases substantially.”
DNR fisheries staff including Love and DNR Biologist Branson Williams, who was recently assigned to tournaments management, will be on hand to exchange information on bass fishing and tournament practices.
Tips on fish handling and live-well maintenance will be a featured part of the forum. Much of this information and news of statewide bass events are available at www.dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/recreational/tidalbass/ .
For more information, contact Joseph Love at (410) 260-8257 or jlove@dnr.state.md.us.