Cat Eye Outfitter
06-09-2003, 07:15 PM
I was out on Happy Lake in eastern Manitoba and met up with some folks on the portage in.... during our conversation we happened to discuss how good the walleye fishing was and how the high quality management regs had made a difference for the lake......however when I saw what was in their boat on the other side of the portage (a five gallon pail of carcasses with fish in the 18-24 inch range ... and you are allowed only four walleye smaller than 16") made me wonder whether we'll ever get a handle on people respecting what is an important and delicate resource. I did call T.I.P.S. but as I discussed the issue with the person at the other end of the line we both agreed that at such a remote lake and with the Manitoba Conservation officers so far away there was little or nothing that could be done. What we do need however are more anglers with a sense of respect for such a great past time and resource (and yeah if no one is there to give you a ticket it's still wrong). I hope that all walleye anglers out there respect the regs in whatever body of water they fish. Happy lake did have its freer-for-all days and it resulted in many "few" fish outings. The two lakes below Happy were once walleye jewels in Manitoba's south east (but now have no where as many "great" fish as they once did)..... Now that Happy has returned to better days ........ it seemed to me after this weekend's experience as though we've learned nothing .....when will we ever learn.