Lake Erie anglers are invited to meet with NYSDEC Lake Erie Fisheries biologists tonight at 6 p.m. at Woodlawn Beach State Park where fishery facts and figures, and light snacks, are on the agenda. Photo courtesy of Forrest Fisher

There is nothing quite like direct communication, a face-to-face interaction, to build trust, confidence and understanding between two groups.

Tonight at Woodlawn Beach State Park on Lake Erie near Athol Springs, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is inviting the public to learn more about the status of Lake Erie and Upper Niagara River fisheries. A public angler outreach meeting is set for 6-9:30 p.m. at the Lodge at Woodlawn Beach State Park, S-3580 Lake Shore Road, Route 5 Buffalo.

When the DEC provides a rare opportunity for fishermen to speak directly to fisheries biologists, it’s a chance for anglers and the public to gain a deeper understanding of the facts and figures of up-to-date research on fish stocks, spawning success, migration patterns and overall ecosystem health. Such knowledge can help anglers make better decisions about when, where and how to fish, empowering them with the information they need to be more successful.

Like my good fishing buddy, Russ Johnson would say, “It’s good stuff.”

Johnson was often considered the “Buck Perry” of Lake Erie. He could catch fish when no one else could, and yes, that was before modern sonar.

More than just a meeting, this is a collaborative effort. Anglers can provide sensitive and critical feedback with their observations on the water for biologists to consider. Understanding the reasons behind regulations and rules helps foster cooperation and compliance. It’s a time when biologists and anglers can work together as a team to address shared concerns, such as invasive species, habitat loss, water quality issues and more.

Lake Erie and the Upper Niagara River rank among the top fishing destinations in the country, especially for walleye, smallmouth bass and steelhead. More than 900,000 angler days are spent on these waters, which are estimated to be worth nearly $20 million to local economies. The meeting helps align the interests of those who rely on the lake for their livelihood or recreation with those who manage it for long-term sustainability, underscoring the significant economic impact of the fisheries.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. with an informal discussion followed by presentations starting at 6:30 p.m. Topics include the 2025 fishing outlook, 2024 fishing performance and survey results, fish contaminant monitoring, consumption advisories and cormorant control. All are welcome to attend this free event; registration is not required. This annual meeting is sponsored by DEC’s Lake Erie Fisheries Research Unit and Region 9 Fisheries offices. Light refreshments will be provided.