By Louie Stout

The forward facing sonar (FFS) controversy is heating up with some state agencies looking closely to determine if regulations are required.

Wisconsin, for example, is considering a proposal to ban it. Other state agencies are expressing concern of its impact on panfish populations.

B.A.S.S. has a committee studying its impact on Elite tournaments this season and will likely offer a ruling later this year. Don’t expect a total ban, but perhaps some limited use. There are rumors of Major League Fishing considering a total ban, but don’t believe rumors until you’re dealing with facts.

While most of the debates are over unfair tournament advantages and affordability, perhaps we should consider impact on fisheries. Not everyone practices catch-and-release.

Eventually the price will come down to where it’s as affordable as inexpensive traditional sonar and more anglers will be using it. While I think a total ban is unnecessary at this time, we should all support studies to measure its impact on fisheries.

Where’s the wood?

If you follow this page, you may have seen the story about the Diamond Lake Association plan to put logs and brush in Diamond Lake to help provide more fish habitat.

Well, the money and effort is there, but the Michigan DNR’s Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) Division has yet to approve the permit despite support from the fisheries division.

This is the same division that wastes little time to rubber stamp permits to spray weeds. It makes no sense!

Wake Boat restrictions?

Michigan anglers should show support for a bill in the Michigan Legislature that would require wake boat users to stay at least 50 feet from shore and in depths of 20 feet “when engaged in sport mode.”

And, rightly so. Studies have proven that the waves from these activities are damaging shorelines and shallow water habitat. That’s a good reason, but there also is a safety issue for anglers who must deal with those huge wakes. Of course, if you’re fishing offshore, you’re still fair game.

Coyote protection?

A suit filed by the Michigan United Conservation Clubs apparently worked. The Michigan Natural Resources Commission, who put a three-month ban on coyote hunting, must have convinced the DNR that it was a dumb move.

The Commission changed its mind and now allows year-round coyote hunting and nighttime hunting with an artificial light.

Banning coyote hunting in the spring when many young of the year game animals are most vulnerable to coyotes’ aggressive feeding was dumb. Also, studies show coyotes account for 22 percent of the deer kills. Anyone with half a brain knows the coyote population is huge and hunting them is a means to keep their numbers in check.