Wisconsin DNR changes fishing tournament rules

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- State wildlife officials have scaled back fishing tournament rules amid complaints.

The Natural Resources Board adopted regulations in January that limited the number of tournaments per body of water and created permits that cost $25 to $200 depending on the contest size and prizes. The rules were supposed to go into effect next year.
But the Assembly Natural Resources Committee objected after fishing groups complained about the permits and provisions allowing wardens to search live wells.

The committee sent the rules back for revision.

In response, state fishery managers have reduced permit fees for some tournaments and removed sections on wardens' authority.

The board is expected to vote on the revisions Aug. 13.