LANSING (AP) -- It soon could be time to find how well Michigan anglers can multitask.
The state Department of Natural Resources is seeking public input on a draft proposal that would allow anglers to have up to three lines in the water while fishing anywhere in Michigan. The recreational fishing limit has been two single lines per angler, with exceptions allowing three for trout and salmon trolling on the upper Great Lakes, for about 80 years.
The fish population probably can handle having more lines in the water, the DNR said Monday. But there are some questions about the human population.
"It is highly unlikely that a change in the regulation to allow three lines per angler statewide will have any adverse biological consequences for the state's fishery resources, although we do have some concerns related to ice fishing," DNR Fisheries Division Chief Kelley Smith said in a statement Monday.
Ice fishing and pier fishing, because it sometimes may be done in relatively tight quarters, could lead to space concerns and potential conflicts for some anglers. Some anglers might be able to handle three lines with no problem, but others might find it difficult.
The DNR will collect public comment on the idea until at least mid-June. If the agency decides to go ahead and pitch the proposal, it would require the approval of state lawmakers.
Also Monday, the DNR said it is considering increases to daily bag limits on some types of salmon.
Current regulations for trout and salmon allow catching up to five per day, but no more than three of any one species except for up to five pink salmon.
The proposed change would increase the harvest limit for chinook and coho salmon to five daily in any combination, including all of any one species.
The DNR is seeking public comment on the proposed change.
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