MikeC its very legal...look at your definitions....Lings and such are classified as foodfish not gamefish. Greenlings are numero uno Ling Cod bait. BTW I always have net ready when bringen up any fish from the bottom out at Neah Bay....don't get in a hurry that last 10 feet to the surface...slow down and look closely around your catch....often you will see Mr. Tooothy right next to it....let it dangle a bit and Ling ON! Have net ready for this one.