Looks like stream smallie regs for 2008 will be one fish and an 18 inch min. While I hate is some ways to see this I know its good for the fishing!!!!

I heard its all but a done deal and maybe no live bait. Which is fine for me but some are witching about it.

Ozarkie

We don't mind if guys keep a smallmouth on the Tennessee River, as long as it's just over 11 lb 15 oz.

A step in the right direction. In Missouri where I live, I don't think 18 in. restrictions would have much of a beneficial effect, since many would poach, and others would still gig any big fish they see.  I think that the vast majority of trophy smallies in our state die at the end of a gig. Our legal gigging season( for rough fish only) is over 4 months long, and our streams are gin clear down to 12 feet which is far deeper than most stream depths. Lots of bass get killed this way, accidentally, or otherwise.