Skaneateles Lake supports valuable populations of Atlantic salmon, lake trout, and other native fish that many anglers care deeply about (including my self). There are concerns among some anglers that increasing numbers of walleye may be putting additional predation pressure on young Atlantic salmon and lake trout.

Allowing regulated spearfishing for walleye could provide another selective harvest method to help manage the walleye population while giving divers and anglers another opportunity to participate in conservation. Spearfishing is highly selective because divers choose individual fish to harvest, reducing unintended catch.

I encourage the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to evaluate the impacts of walleye on Skaneateles Lake’s fish community and to consider allowing a regulated spearfishing season for walleye if scientific evidence shows it would benefit the fishery.

If you support science-based fisheries management and expanded recreational opportunities, please sign this petition.