The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers to remove fish houses from ice before statutory deadlines ranging from February 20 to March 31, depending on location. Lt. Col. Robert Gorecki emphasizes proper cleanup and timely removal to end the season positively, warning that violations may result in prosecution and confiscation.
Smith River permit lottery results are now available through MyFWP, with successful applicants receiving email confirmation to print as proof. Unsuccessful applicants can purchase Super Permit chances through March 15 for $5 each, with one winner allowed to launch on any date. Floaters should note new requirements including packing out human waste and registering via phone two days before launch.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will host a public meeting on February 26 at the Jefferson County Courthouse Annex in Monticello to discuss Lake Miccosukee management during an ongoing natural dry-down event. Residents, anglers, hunters, and stakeholders are invited to share perspectives and ask questions.
Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department requires ice fishing shanties be removed before ice weakens or by March 29th, whichever comes first. Failure to remove shanties and contents can result in fines, license points, and shanties are prohibited at state fishing access areas.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is accepting submissions of original artwork and photographs for its 2026 hard collector's license cards. Artists and photographers can submit images in Wildlife/Hunting, Fish/Fishing, or Scenic/Other categories by February 21, with winners featured on cards and LDWF's website and social media.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will hold an in-person meeting February 4-5 at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center in Tallahassee. The public is invited to attend starting at 8:30 a.m. EST each day, with opportunities to provide comments on agenda items.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources invites the public to a Jan. 28 meeting at the North Oakland County Fire Authority to review and provide feedback on a new draft general management plan for Seven Lakes State Park in Oakland County. Park management plan administrator Debbie Jensen will present proposed improvements and the planning process.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will host two public listening sessions on January 20-21 to gather community input on fish, wildlife, and habitat management on Lake Okeechobee.
The Gulf Council will meet January 26-28, 2026 to take final action on Reef Fish Amendment 62 regarding red grouper catch limits and Reef Fish Amendment 58A addressing scamp and yellowmouth grouper stock assessments. Public comment is welcome on January 28 from 9:15 AM-12:30 PM CST.
Since Jan. 1, all anglers age 15 and older have been required to buy a Columbia River salmon and steelhead endorsement (CRSSE) to fish recreationally for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River and many of its Washington tributaries.
The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is meeting virtually at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 9 to consider advisory committee appointment recommendations and hear a briefing on the ongoing development of the WDFW’s Game Management Plan.
The permits are issued each year through a lottery and are required to float the 59-mile section of river between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge. Parties of up to 15 people can float with one permit.