Montana studies spearfishing regulation impact on local fisheries

A new study is underway to assess the impact of recently relaxed spearfishing regulations in Western Montana, allowing submerged spearfishing for the first time. The study aims to understand the effects on local fisheries. The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks department is conducting an online survey to gather data on spearfishing activities, including location, equipment used, and fish harvested. The focus is on northern pike, an invasive species targeted by the new regulations. The regulation change, which allows spearfishing while swimming, was met with mixed public reaction. The study hopes to provide data to assess the impact of the new regulations and inform future management decisions.