We’ve heard a lot in recent years about the size of the fishing industry in Michigan, especially in light of threats from the Asian Carp, but Southwestern Michigan State Representative Pauline Wendzel is working on a separate track focused on the commercial role of sportfishing in the Great Lakes State.
Wendzel has joined with Representatives Jim Lilly and Jack O’Malley to introduce legislation to modernize commercial fishing regulations in Michigan, saying, “Sportfishing produces an economic output of over $3.7 billion and supports nearly 28,000 jobs across our state.” Wendzel adds, “Michigan has some of the most precious natural resources in the world, and it’s important that we have modern regulations in place to protect our resources and ensure that people continue coming into our state to spend tourism dollars that support local communities.”
Wendzel’s bill has netted early support from one of Michigan’s largest angling conservation organizations. Dennis Eade, Executive Director of the Michigan Steelhead & Salmon Fishermen’s Association, is voicing strong support of her legislation, noting, “The Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen’s Association fully supports Rep. Wendzel’s legislation to establish a commercial fishing statue that protects game fish, regulates gear used to take fish and establishes penalties which will protect our sport fishery.” He adds, “We have gone far too long with an antiquated statue that failed to establish best practices when it comes to harvesting fish in the Great Lakes.”
Wendzel points out, “Our local sport fishermen support over 1,800 jobs right here in Southwest Michigan,” and concludes, “My bill will protect Michigan’s natural resources and jobs right here in Berrien County.”
House Bills 4567-4569 are now before the House Committee on Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation for further consideration.
In the photo accompanying this story on Moody on the Market, State Rep Pauline Wendzel is joined by Rep Jim Lilly and Rep Jack O’Malley in introducing her legislation to modernize commercial fishing regulations in Michigan.
