The Ohio Wildlife Council (OWC) passed a slate of new rules and regulations last week, according to the Ohio Division of Wildlife, including a six-walleye daily limit across Lake Erie from March 1 to April 30. A separate walleye daily limit for the Sandusky River and Sandusky Bay from March 1 to April 30 has been rescinded.

This change aligns the walleye daily limit with the rest of the Lake Erie Sport Fishing District. All fishing regulation changes take effect on Jan. 1.

The OWC also removed the six-fish daily limit of channel catfish on inland lakes and reservoirs less than 700 acres. The statewide daily bag limit of one channel catfish 28 inches or larger remains in place. The statewide changes do not include Hoover Reservoir.

Removing the channel catfish bag limit on smaller lakes and reservoirs increases angler opportunities, promotes harvest and increases the growth rates of the remaining fish.

Ohio taxidermists and venison processors are also now allowed to accept legally harvested out-of-state white-tailed deer and other cervid carcasses. Information about properly handling cervid carcasses will be distributed to certified taxidermists and processors to limit the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease, a fatal disease that affects deer and other cervids. This change took effect Nov. 1, in time for the deer hunting seasons.

“The Division of Wildlife constantly strives to remain current with the best management practices and regulations for Ohio’s wildlife, while also increasing recreational opportunities for our outdoor community,” said Wildlife Chief Kendra Wecker. “The latest action by the Ohio Wildlife Council keeps our fish and wildlife populations healthy while simplifying our regulations.”