• The term “artificial” is used to describe a lure, fly, or plastic that is not scented or contain live bait in any form.

• The term “artificial flies” specifically refers to flies being the only tackle allowed. This does not mean you must use a fly rod, just that you may only use flies while fishing. That means no plastics, metal lures, or anything with a treble hook (three pronged hook).

• The term “artificial lures” has the same restrictions as above in terms of bait and scent but does allow metal or plastics without scent. When this regulation is noted it includes restrictions on treble hooks.
• A typical fine for a barbed hook in a restricted area is around $500.

* When de-barbing a hook keep in mind that pinching the barb down with flat bladed pliers may work on smaller hooks but on larger hooks, using a file may be necessary to fully eliminate the barb. The field test that most Game Warden will run to determine if a hook has a barb is to run the hook through a piece of cloth such as a shirt sleeve. You should run this test on your own to be sure your hook will pass the test.