State Rep. Thomas Albert this week testified before the House Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Committee in support of his plan to expand the methods of fishing currently allowed by Michigan law.

Albert, of Lowell, said his plan would allow the use of trotlines and juglines on inland lakes and rivers for nongame fish species and snapping turtles. In Michigan, this type of fishing would be used primarily for catfish.

“It is important to note that many states allow trotline and jugline fishing, and our neighboring states including Ohio and Indiana have similar regulations,” Albert said. “These methods are part of a long-time fishing tradition that would also likely increase interest in fishing across the board.”

Trotlines are set and unattended fishing lines that have multiple hooks and lie along the bed of water. Juglines float on the water surface, have one hook and must always be attended.

Albert explained that all fishing equipment would be required to be marked with an angler’s name, address and phone number, which is common in other states and important for ensuring anglers do not set a line and fail to retrieve it.

“In Michigan we generally take catfish for granted because we have so much other game fish available,” Albert said. “My goal is to attract more fishermen and women to this great sport.”

Albert’s measure remains in the House Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Committee for further consideration.

Photo Information: State Rep. Thomas Albert testifies before the House Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Committee Tuesday.