We've all seen fishing regulations — seasons, size limits, daily and possession limits— but how are they actually set? The numbers aren't just pulled out of thin air. They're grounded in decades of science and driven by massive amounts of data -collected through creel surveys, trap net sets and rigorous sampling programs.

On this episode of Doc Talks Fishing, we're joined by OMNR Regional Fish and Wildlife Specialist, Scott Smithers. Scott walks us through what these surveys look like in the field, the kinds of information they provide, and how all of it comes together to guide fishery management decisions. If you've ever wondered why a season opens when it does, or why you can keep two fish here but four fish there—this is the episode for you.

Send us a message