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As this year’s open-water fishing season gets under way, anglers trying their luck on Michigan lakes, rivers and Great Lakes ports can expect to see Department of Natural Resources fisheries staff out and about collecting key data about those experiences.
DNR creel clerks are stationed at boat launches and piers around the state, asking anglers questions as they return from fishing trips. The clerks will ask about things like trip length, target species and the number and type of fish caught. In some cases, clerks may ask to measure or weigh fish and to take scales or other body parts for aging – these details provide key information that helps the DNR take care of the state’s fisheries.
“We really appreciate angler cooperation with these interviews, and it only takes a couple of minutes to answer the questions,” said DNR fisheries biologist Tracy Claramunt. “This program helps us gather information that is critical in managing fish populations and health. It’s information that truly is used in every aspect of our management efforts.”
These efforts are part of the DNR’s Statewide Angler Survey Program, a long-term monitoring program that tracks recreational fisheries and harvest across Michigan’s waters. It’s one of the most comprehensive angler survey programs in the country, with DNR creel clerks interviewing upwards of 50,000 anglers most years.
Information about where creel clerks are stationed and the data they collect is available on the DNR website or by calling Tracy Claramunt, 517-282-2887 or Elyse Walter, 517-284-5839.
