Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division officials are seeking comments on proposed changes to state trout fishing regulations on inland lakes and streams that are designed to further simplify the rules.

The current regulations, which were adopted in April 2000, were designed to simplify and standardize trout regulations by stream type, matching regulations to resource potential and allowing for diverse recreational opportunity. Analysis of creel surveys conducted on some of the streams showed that some of the regulations have not produced the desired results.

The proposal calls for elimination of Type 2 stream regulations, which were designed to produce larger fish.

"It hasn't worked," said Fisheries Division Chief Kelley Smith.

As a result, Type 2 streams will be reclassified into other types. In addition, the proposal calls for standard minimum size limits of seven inches for brook trout and eight inches for brown trout statewide. Previously, size limits for both species differed by peninsula.

Meanwhile, the proposal recommends combining all Type 5, 6 and 7 streams, as well as some research streams, into one Gear Restricted Waters category. For the most part, the regulations on those streams will remain the same as the current regulations, but combining the streams into one category will allow for more flexibility in regulations moving forward.

The proposal also calls for a 24-inch minimum size limit on splake, which will make the regulation the same as it is for lake trout.

"Our stakeholders have consistently asked us to simplify regulations," Smith said. "We feel this proposal does that while still allowing us to manage for maximum recreational potential."

To read the proposal, visit the DNR Web site at www.michigan.gov/dnrfishing.

Comments on the proposals can be sent to DNR-InlandTrout@michigan.gov.