April 23, 2018

Dear Anglers,

As the creator, admin and editor of Exposing Paylakes, I feel it's my personal responsibility to notify you of recent changes pertaining to the upcoming Catfish Regulations meeting. This matter, which was beyond our control, forced the meeting date to be moved to the next Fisheries Committee meeting. Ultimately, there are 3 main reasons for the delay:

1. The Commercial Fishing Group has been and are avoiding commenting on the proposed changes. They are seeking to delay this out as long as possible.
   
   
2. Some Pay Lake owners are aligned with Commercial Fisherman and too are seeking to drag this out as long as possible.
   
   
3. Turnover at Senior level positions within KDFWR. There have been a number of significant retires and resignations of senior level professionals within the Department. This is slowing down the process.
   
   

These Commercial Fisherman and Pay Lake owners need to realize that change is coming. Avoiding and delaying only helps our cause however painful this is for our group. Legislatures and Wildlife Commissioners don’t take kindly to “reindeer games”.

Our group continues to work in good faith while meeting all deadlines as directed by the Department. While there are still tense negotiations occurring, our group feels like we are in a very good place at this juncture.

As these negotiations play out, we continue to ask for your support in the following ways:

1. Patience – Our team truly realizes how painful it is watching this resources be depleted and wasted. However, governments and governmental process are very slow and methodical. Yes, delays happen, but we can assure you, we will have our day in front of the Commissioners with an up and down vote.
   
   
2. Vacation Days – We cannot thank you all enough for planning ahead and booking vacation days. As this negotiating process is fluid, so are the key dates. Right now, Catfishing is NOT on the May 18th agenda and has been moved to the next Fisheries Committee Meeting scheduled for August 17th. Once language is approved in August, it will then appear on the Full Commission agenda on September 7, 2018. Once approved there, it then proceeds to the Legislative Resource Committee. As you plan the remainder of your year, 2 key dates that we are anticipating are August 17th and September 7, 2018.
   
3. Positive and Professional – Our team is asking that everyone remain positive and professional during these negotiations. It is easy for us to bad mouth our opposition, but let’s stay together and positive.
   
   

In conclusion, we have been working tirelessly to seek the best possible regulations for the Ohio River basin. While we are concerned about delays in the process, we will be much more satisfied with rock solid regulations that can stand the test of time.

Our team of professionals thanks you for your interest and patience in this matter. If you have any specific questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly at ChrisLee@ExposingPaylakes.com.