Nativepride has it right. The government doesn't buy them their fishing gear. Where'd you get information like that? Small Business Administration loans have been made to Indians for fishing or fishing related enterprizes, especially in the early years following the Boldt Decision, just like any other American can get, but no freebie.

And Treaty Indians can use modern commercial fishing gear, just as non-treaty fishermen can use modern commercial and sport fishing gear. Sheesh, I've posted that over a dozen times. Am I wasting my time by posting accurate information on this BB?

And whirling disease was first observed in northern Europe, at hatcheries in Denmark, I believe. Steelhead are susceptable to it and infected fish were sampled in Rattlesnake Creek, a tributary to the Grand Ronde River a few years ago. Haven't heard anything about it since.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.