The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) reminds steelhead anglers that the law requires that they return their 2006 Steelhead Fishing Report Card by Jan. 31. Although violation of the mandatory return requirement is a misdemeanor, its intent is to provide DFG with sufficient data to monitor and manage California's steelhead populations.

"Unfortunately some anglers see this program and the reporting of their steelhead fishing efforts as a hassle, but their information is critical to maintaining and improving healthy and fishable steelhead populations," said Terry Jackson, coordinator of the Steelhead Report Card Program. "Our goal is to improve California steelhead habitat and populations and to increase steelhead fishing opportunities and success. This requires accurate and complete data from anglers. Steelhead anglers should read their cards carefully, and complete the information as accurately as possible."

The green Steelhead Card is a fishing report, not just a catch report ??? steelhead anglers must record where and when they fished, even if no fish were caught on a given trip. Those who did not fish for steelhead in 2006 are asked to write "Did Not Fish" on the card. All cards must be returned, regardless of the number of trips taken.

All wild steelhead must be released unharmed, except in the Smith River. Wild steelhead can be identified by their intact adipose fin (a smaller fin on the back between the larger dorsal fin and the tail). Hatchery reared steelhead may be kept in accordance with the regulations in specific waters and are identified by the absence of the adipose fin and a healed scar where the fin had been. Anglers are encouraged to keep the allowable hatchery steelhead limit.

Additional information is available through DFG's Steelhead Fishing Report Card program Web page: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/nafwb/steelhead.html

Steelhead Report Cards should be mailed to:

Department of Fish and Game?ĮSteelhead Fishing Report-Restoration Card ?ĮP.O. Box 944209?ĮSacramento CA 94244-2090

The cards can also be dropped off at any DFG office. In the Sacramento area, the card can be dropped off at 830 S St., in Sacramento. Frequently Asked Questions are addressed at: http://www.dfg.ca.gov/nafwb/SteelheadReportCardFAQ.html.