The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking input from sport anglers for shaping the 2017 Pacific halibut and bottomfish seasons. Anglers are encouraged to participate in the season-setting process by attending one of four public meetings in August. “There is a possibility that we may have to shorten the Central Coast Subarea all-depth halibut seasons as a result of bycatch mortality of yelloweye rockfish,” said Maggie Sommer, Marine Fisheries Section Manager. “It’s important that we hear from a wide range of anglers before making a decision.” Four public meetings are scheduled, as well as a webcast. The meeting times and locations are as follows: Monday, Aug. 1 from 6-8 p.m., in Brookings at the Best Western Beachfront Inn; Tuesday, Aug. 2 from 6-8 p.m., in Coos Bay at the Red Lion Hotel; Wednesday, Aug. 3 from 7-9 p.m., in Salem at ODFW Headquarters Commission Room; Monday, Aug. 15 from 6-8 p.m., in Newport, Marine Resource Program office, 2040 SE Marine Science Dr. (webcast available, see details below)* Anglers who wish to provide input on the 2017 halibut or bottomfish seasons but cannot attend a meeting can contact Lynn Mattes at (541) 867-4741 ext. 237, or Lynn.Mattes@state.or.us. More information on the meetings will be posted on the ODFW sport bottomfish and sport halibut webpages next week. *WEBCAST DETAILS: Join the meeting at: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/851186053; Use your microphone and speakers. Or, call in using your telephone. Dial +1 (224) 501-3212; Access Code: 851-186-053; Audio PIN: Shown in the GoTo Meeting dialogue box on your computer screen after joining the meeting; Meeting ID: 851-186-053.
