COLUMBUS, OH -- The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife reminds anglers that a 2002 fishing license is required by March 1. The 2001 license expires on February 28.
Anglers can obtain new licenses at more than 1,300 license outlets statewide where the 2002-2003 Ohio Fishing Regulations brochure is also available.
The regulation brochure provides information on license requirements and exemptions, regulations in effect for the new season, a county-by-county listing of wildlife officers and a listing of aquatic nuisance species. It also contains information on how to obtain Ohios fish consumption advisory.
The major change in this year's regulations reduces the perch limit to 30 on inland waters, bringing it in line with the bag limit on Lake Erie. There are other site-specific changes and anglers are advised to consult the regulations brochure before heading out to fish.
Ohio's annual resident license costs $15. A one-day fishing license costs $7 and may later be exchanged for credit toward purchase of an annual fishing license. The annual non-resident license costs $24, while a three-day non-resident license costs $15. Fishing licenses are required for people age 16 and older. Those anglers who are age 66 and older may obtain a free license directly from a fishing license vendor.
ODNR will observe "Free Fishing Days" June 1 and 2 during which Ohio residents are encouraged to experience Ohio fishing without purchasing a license.
Additional information about fishing in Ohio may be obtained by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE, or on the Internet at ohiodnr.com
For Further Information Contact:
Vicki Mountz, ODNR Division of Wildlife
(614) 265-6300
-or-
For Further Information Contact:
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6882