Gwen Rummell Reporting –
Fishing is one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities with an all-year-round availability.
The state of Ohio requires all residents and nonresidents to have a license to catch fish, frogs, and turtles.
There are several exclusions to the usual license requirement including age, disability, veteran or military status, and location. Individuals who believe they may be exempted should check license exemptions on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.
Tuscarawas County Wildlife Officer Michael Budd says it’s very important to be aware of fishing regulations due to the effects it can have on wildlife.
“All of our regulations are put there for a purpose. At one point in time, lakes and rivers had been fished out and there was very few fish to catch. So a lot of the regulations are put there to keep fish populations there for future generations and kind of sustain a level that’s good for everybody.”
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources states that Ohio and federal fishing laws are subject to change and it is the responsibility of the angler to be aware of the most current laws.
Fishermen can learn more about Ohio’s regulations by contacting their county’s wildlife officer or visiting ohionr.gov.
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