Ed,
I believe they get their escapement numbers from surveying redds. Depending on water levels, this seems like an inconsistent way to get a good indication of run sizes. We can all agree that wild runs have been on the decline the last few seasons on the Sky, so maybe this isnt such a bad thing. Leaving the Nates alone for a few seasons could help things alot. Its unfortunate though...

If we have a statewide wild fish release, it might be wise to have a seperate liscense to fish the CNR waters, and that money can go straight to conservation(5-10$). I might be going overboard here, but a short test would be nice for the people who dont know how to release fish properly. For example: Dragging fish up rocks, netting fish, 5 minute photo setions, my little buddy sqeezes...etc
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"I have a fair idea of what to expect from the river, and usually, because I fish it that way, the river gives me approximately what I expect of it. But sooner or later something always comes up to change the set of my ways..."
- Roderick Haig-Brown