MADISON – State Representative Elijah Behnke (R-Oconto) issued the following statement in response to the Assembly passing Senate Bill 612 (SB 612), which would require the WI Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to stock 100,000 brook trout in Lake Michigan annually:
“I’m proud to have authored SB 612 with Senator Eric Wimberger, and am even more proud to see it pass through the Legislature. When we introduced this bill, the support from anglers across Wisconsin was immense.”
“Many fondly remembered catching brook trout in the harbors and bays of Lake Michigan when they were younger. In addition, I heard countless people remark on how enjoyable it is specifically catching brook trout.”
“Brook trout are a native species to Wisconsin, so maintaining healthy population levels in our state’s greatest lake is crucial. SB 612 will ensure that current and future generations of anglers will be able to enjoy catching brook trout off the docks, piers, and shores of Lake Michigan.”
SB 612 passed the Assembly with a voice vote. Having already passed the Senate last year, the bill now heads to Governor Evers’ desk.
