News Release Archives - January 2008

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January 14, 2008

Winter Anglers Reminded of Private Property Rights, Clean Up Ice

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department reminds winter anglers to clean up the ice after fishing and respect private property rights when traveling to and from a favorite fishery.

Anglers are reminded that it is not only unsightly, but it is illegal to leave fish behind on the ice. According to the fishing proclamation, when a fish is caught anglers must either immediately release the fish back into the water unharmed, or reduce them to their daily possession.

“It has also become common practice for some anglers to fillet fish on the ice,” said Robert Timian, law enforcement chief. “If you are going to do this, don’t leave the entrails and sides of filleted fish on the ice. Clean up after yourself. Put the carcass in a trash bag and properly dispose of it when you get home.”

The Game and Fish Department has received several complaints from landowners regarding people driving through fields in order to access a lake. When access roads are blown shut, travelers cannot navigate through a field in order to circumvent the blocked roadway without first talking to the landowner.

“Private property rights are the same year-around,” Timian said. “Regardless of the time of year, if there is not a drivable trail, you should talk to the landowner; if the land is signed no trespassing, you need to seek permission.”

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