Chukarnut.
This subject was brought up a long time ago. I'm still throwing in my 2 cents worth though.
I believe it is very wide spread,from what I have seen. Especially on the Cow and rivers like that where,there have been some huge runs of silvers the past few years.I guess one way to look at it is that they still get recorded.
Although usually on the bank after the fishings done.
I personally don't care how many fish a person takes out of some of those hatchery runs.They are there to harvest,and usually more than enough to go around.
I've personally seen a lot of guides hand off poles,give clients fish,and keep clients eggs.
One of the reasons they hand off poles is for the benefit of the client.Some of them dont know a thing about fishing and thats the only way they will know what its like ti land a fish.So they are doing a service to their clients.
I alos believe,from what I have observed ,that when the guide sets the boat up on a drift,he is in the best position to catch fish.First because he is the first person through the hole,second because he is in the best position for the drift.
I think if your with a guide, your best bet is to get the spot in the rear of the boat closest to the guide.Thats where the next most fish will be caught.And it will taper off from there to the front of the boat.
I know some of the things I mentioned are illegal,but accepted practice.and most people just don't really care.
I'm sure you'll hear some more heated opinions on this.Probably some directed at me.But thats what these boards are all about,right