I too admire your honesty David but I find your logic flawed. Are you having that much trouble providing for your family? There are ways to do that without breaking the law. If I were having troubles like that I would sell as many of my luxury items like rods, reels or whatever to get the necessary item, I've done this very thing. Sure salmon are plentiful this year and a few snagged fish are not going to hurt the run but think a minute, What if everyone who was having trouble like you are resorted to an ilegal activity such as this? Maybe someone who hasn't caught a fish in awhile could justify it too! I think you used poor judgenment and took the easy way and maybe you want us to help you ease your guilty conscience. I can't do it...sorry it just doesn't wash.
I relate to the pay cuts you talk about because I had to do it too recently but I can still put food on the table without doing something illegal.
Good luck