Ok I read a lot on this board advocating state wide catch and release of native steelhead. Can some of you inform me of why you want to do this.

• I understand C&R of native fish in rivers with hatcheries were they are attempting to rebuild native populations. But I do not understand the logic behind going to C&R on rivers with a viable native population where retention of native fish is allowed.

• I also do not understand why advocates of C&R believe they should be allowed special areas that are C&R only, as opposed to practicing C&R in the area's where harvest is allowed.

• If protecting and rebuilding the native runs in certain watersheds it the goal. Why not just close those waters to angling and give the fish a chance to rebuild without the harassment caused by C&R? Because no matter how careful you are, there is still mortality among fish in C&R.

I am not trying to ruffle anyones feathers here with my first post. I'm just trying to understand the reasoning behind this thinking. I do practice C&R where required as well as releasing hatchery fish when I do not want to take one home. Thanks for your replies. MetalHead