Bob Hooton, a BC longtime steelhead manager, angler, and author, has argued that one of the factors driving steelhead decline has been increased access to the fish through boats (particularly jet sleds) and opening up of access to headwater areas and extended season.

He argues that they have fewer sanctuary areas. Although we were managing salmon and not steelhead the policy by WDF back in the day was to fish salmon in transit areas but not on the spawning grounds.

Yes, leaving large tracts unfished concentrates the anglers, giving more of a crowded fishery, but it does give the fish a break.

Separation of fisheries and closures probably work best with Summers because of their time in the river. Winters are present for such a short time that management for sanctuaries and closures is difficult if any opportunity is to be given.