IER classifications are based on physical features such as gill coverings, shape of body, shape of fins, shape of head, and body coloring. In addition, IER considers any other characteristics that make it unique to the lake or river. IER classifications also include the location of the lake or stream. For example, lakes and rivers that have an outlet through a river channel or bay are referred to as inland lakes and rivers, whereas lakes and rivers that are in another inland body of water, such as Lake Champlain, are classified as coastal lakes and rivers.
The classification system is used by IER staff to determine the appropriate number of legal limit in each lake or stream to be stocked by a specific lake or stream. The minimum number of legal limit fish that may be stocked in any lake or stream is determined by IER staff based on IER guidelines and regulations. If a lake or stream has no specific stocking requirements, then the IER will determine the proper number of fish in the lake or stream to be stocked using the IER guidelines and regulations.
The IER does not regulate the stocking of certain wild or migratory fish. It is up to the fish management authority of the State in which the lake or stream is located to provide such regulation. If you are interested in stocking fish in your lake or stream you should contact your local fish management authority. There are a number of excellent guides available on the internet to help you locate the right fish stocking authority for you.
All IER designations are legally binding and must be adhered to by the lake or stream. A person or company who violates an IER designation can be fined and/or have his or her license suspended or revoked by the Fish and Wildlife Service. A person who knowingly violates IER designations can be prosecuted.
The Fish and Wildlife Service maintains a database of IER designations and their current status. The FWS also publishes lake or stream IER designations at least once per year in the Federal Register. The FWS publishes all lake or stream designations on their web site, including lake or stream IER designations.
If you have questions about the legal status of your lake or stream you may contact the FWS directly. They will assist you in determining if your lake or stream is currently stocked and if not should be stocked.
You should always check with your local fish or wildlife service office before stocking your lake or stream with more than the minimum number of IER fish. They will be able to give you advice on how to fill the lake or stream with the proper amount of fish.
