The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) reminds anglers that they are required to return their 2011 Steelhead Fishing Report and Restoration Cards between Jan. 1 and Jan. 31, 2012.

Anglers are requested to review their cards carefully and complete the information as accurately as possible. Information collected from report cards provides DFG with data necessary to monitor and manage California’s steelhead fisheries.

The Steelhead Fishing Report and Restoration Card is a fishing report as well as a catch report. Steelhead anglers record where and when they fished, even if no fish were caught on a given trip.

Anglers are encouraged to submit steelhead report card data online at www.dfg.ca.gov/steelheadcard, but report cards can still be submitted by mail. Information must be submitted regardless of whether or not the angler fished for steelhead.

Those who did not fish for steelhead in 2011 are asked to select the “did not fish” option online or write “did not fish” on the card.

Additional information and a list of frequently asked questions about the program can be found on DFG’s Steelhead Fishing Report and Restoration Card Program Web page, www.dfg.ca.gov/steelheadcard.

Also on the Web page is “A Report to the Legislature (July 2007)” that includes an overview of steelhead biology and statewide status, projects funded with steelhead angler dollars, angling data, and monthly angling effort and monthly catch for a majority of California’s streams.

Anglers may download a copy or they can request one be mailed to them when they return their Steelhead Fishing Report and Restoration Card.

Anglers who wish to return their Steelhead Fishing Report and Restoration Cards by mail should send them to: DFG – Steelhead Fishing Report Card, P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090.