Daryl Bauer, Fisheries Outreach Program Manager
Have heard several folks this week mention that they FINALLY received their Master Angler Awards. Yes, we had a back log and yes, it took a while to get caught up. There are thousands of Master Angler awards granted each year and it takes some staff time to get that accomplished. Although entries can be done online, we still have to enter, print, stuff and mail every one of those awards. We do them in batches and sometimes it can take several weeks to receive an award.
However, if you think your award got lost someplace, let us know about it!
Let me also say this: With the volume, at times some extra bodies are enlisted to help. Mistakes are made. If you have a mistake on an award, note the corrections and send it back, “Attention Fisheries”. We can and will get those corrected. If it would be easier, drop me an e-mail and let me know what needs to be corrected ([email protected]).
A couple other reminders:
We have established minimum length requirements for all of the species we recognize for Master Angler awards. Those fish can be immediately released and still qualify for recognition. The idea behind minimum lengths is to minimize the handling of fish that are going to be released. The less handling, the sooner fish are back in the water from which they came, and the better their survival.
Yes, I know there are relatively accurate, portable, digital scales available now, but DO NOT WEIGH Master Angler fish that are going to be released. All that is needed is a length measurement! Weighing those fish only results in more handling and reduced survival. If the fish was immediately released, enter the length on the application form and do not bother with the weight–do not weigh the fish.
The minimum length Master Angler standards are for fish that are immediately released. They do NOT apply to fish that were kept.
The minimum weight standards apply for fish that are not released. If you are applying for a Master Angler award for a fish that was kept, IT MUST MEET the minimum weight. The length of fish that are kept makes no difference for Master Angler awards. The minimum weights apply to fish that were harvested.
Again, you can find Master Angler rules and an application form in any copy of the Fishing Guide. Or, if you wish, you can enter online. If you have questions, need help with getting an award corrected, [email protected], e-mail me, anytime.