Guys, Guys, Guys,,,...
For all of your information, WDFW has stopped planting SUMMER RUN STEELHEAD in the Humptulips. Due to budget cuts in 1999.... The winter run program is still in effect. The numbers have been reduced to 75,000 smolt plants, in the current brood document, But a study program is going on, and all 130,000 winters are still being planted. Befor people start taking the words of those not in the know.. I suggest you check with fish management at the Montesano ofice of WDFW. There are those of us who work continually for the betterment of our recreation fisheries.. If you are really concerned for the future of sport fishing, Get involved with a sports group, and do something for fish besides killing them..
I,m sure all of you know there is a strong push out there to eliminate the retention of any unmarked steelhead in WA. state waters. And in the same voice, are pushing for catch and release. I feel this is simply a licenses to kill wild fish. With the hooking mortality associated with hooking, 15%, to continue fishing after 2, two, wild fish have been released, is usless killing of the wild stocks. If there is a concern, and scientific reason to protect wild steelhead, how come so many fishermen brag of the large numbers of fish they catch and release in a day. At least one in seven will be dead, probably more if handled for photos, and other reasons.. Wild fish release state wide is not the answer to rebuilding wild runs. That program has been run up the flag pole for years on several rivers, and the numbers continue to decline on those same rivers.. If a river has harvestable steelhead, the rule as it has been for the past few years, should be the norm. Enough of my high horse attitude. I do love to see wild fish released, it was my norm, long befor it was fashionable, but if I ever catch that 25 pound plus steelhead. I would love place it on my wall..
I as well as a few others will continue working for your opportunity to pursue your sport..
Keep the bottoms down, and watch for the rocks ahead.....