For most bass fishermen in West Virginia, there was quite the speculation back a month ago when the DNR unveiled their new plan for tournament fishing in the state. They announced a new set of rules for tournament fishing that can be found here in an article we wrote about the changes.
The WVDNR is holding its Commission Meeting that is open to the public and bass fishermen to voice their opinions on rules changes and regulations.
President of the BASS Nation of West Virginia spoke out about the meeting and provide words of encouragement to rally anglers to be present at the meeting. His statement is below.
“Hello, all.
For the continued growth and future of our organization, I need your help.
The WVDNR issued a new tournament policy, effective this year, that contains revisions that I believe are not in the best interests of our members, our Presenting Sponsors, and competitive bass fishing in our state.
I take issue with:
Section 1.01.f
This rule that seeks to limit the number of competitors began last year. It was our hope that, through discussion with WVDNR, this rule would be rescinded. Although we’ve been assured that WVDNR will work with our org toward getting our members the needed parking spaces, the rule still stands and no efforts have been made to increase the available parking at these sites. Our Presenting Sponsors Marion County Commission, City of Ravenswood, and Prim Law Firm, PLLC, and the organizers of our benefit tournament for Children’s Home Society of WV – Summersville wish to have the maximum amount of competitors at our events to give them the maximum amount of exposure to the public. The fine folks of Marion County, Ravenswood, and CHS want and need our economic impact. Less impact equals less funds for them and for BNWV to support our Adult, Youth, and Conservation programs.
Section 1.02.a
The requirement that we maintain a record of each competitor’s cell phone# and the trailer license# of the boat being used is, in my opinion, a government overreach. Recreational anglers and boaters do not have the same requirement. We’ve been assured by WVDNR that the requirement that the “Tournament Director be available at the weigh in location during the entire event” will be rescinded. But, again, the rule still stands.
WVDNR Commission did not make or cause these new regulations. The commission deserves respect and we need their assistance to change these policy items.
This is the opportune time to let our voices be heard. WVDNR Director Brett McMillion, WVNRPOs, other WVDNR employees, and media members will be attending and we want all present to know our stance.
As such, registered speakers will be given 3 minutes to speak. I plan to register and I urge you to, also. Speakers don’t need to repeat the same thing. If all you wish to say is “I agree with…”, that would help send the message. Please wear your tournament jerseys or fishing shirts for the visual effect.
All of us have played a very important role in the growth and success of OUR organization. BNWV leads the way in supporting our State Team, Youth programs, Conservation initiatives and projects that benefit ALL anglers, and our world-class fish care. I’m very proud to say that B.A.S.S. recognizes BNWV as one of, if not THE, preeminent state organizations. Our members do not deserve to be penalized for our success. Enough is enough.
Thank you.
Hack“
Details about the meeting can be seen below or can be found here on the WVDNR website.
WVDNR Commission Meeting
Date: Sunday, February 26 – 1:00 PM
Location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston, 300 Court Street, Charleston, WV 25301
CONTACT INFORMATION
West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
Director’s Office
324th Avenue
South Charleston, WV 25303
304-558-2754
Fax: 304-558-2768
Each attendee that pre-registers at the meeting is given three minutes to speak at the meeting or stand up to say I agree with so and so.
I think it is super important that the tournament bass fishermen of West Virginia show up in the masses and show their displeasure with the rules changes that ultimately affect how tournaments are run in the state of West Virginia. This is the surefire way to gain the attention of the concerns on tournament bass fishing in the state and I invite anyone who can attend, to go attend the meeting and let your voice be heard.
To pre-register please use the contacts above to register.
