HntnFsh

I would suggest that you go to http://www.adventuresports.com/river/nors/states/wa-law.htm

I would also suggest that you and everyone else on our board download the information called "Who owns the rivers in Washington?" I would make several copies of this document and carry it both in my rig and on me when I am bank fishing. If any land owner attempts to have you arrested, show them the document in a polite manner. Remember, this documents does not support you if you trespassing "across" private lands!

Ask them (the land owner or the officer) if they know what the laws are when it comes to "trespassing" below the "mean high water line" in the State of Washington. Let them read the document, if possible. If you know that your right and you are truly below the "mean high water line" then I would take my chances in court and take the ticket! But first make sure that you have explained your reasoning to the officer or land owner before you sign any citation. That way there will be no excuse for an arresting officer or a land owner to claim that you did not make a "reasonable attempt" to settle the difference before being falsely citied. Never attempt to refuse what the officer tells you to do! Leave and do the following suggested steps:

1) Before you leave, make sure that you get the officers name and badge number, and the time for reference. 2) Then you should write a "formal complaint" (make sure you use the words, "formal complaint") letter to whoever is their captain or head sheriff may be.
3) Explain what has happen, and that you had given the officer and/or the land owner all the information (both verbally and by written documentation) showing that you indeed had the right to be where you were at. 4) Explain that you and your fellow fishermen do not want to be further harassed either by the land owner or by any of his officers who may be called out again. 5) Explain to them how that the lack of the officers knowledge on your rights to be within the "mean high water lines" on state waterways has put both you and the officer at jeopardy.

6) Ask them to please inform ALL of his officers of what the laws are when it comes to "public access on states water ways". 7) Request a written response to your formal complaint. 8) cc a copy of your letter to Mr. Bruce Bjork, Chief of Enforcement for WDFW at 600 N Capital Way Olympia, WA 98504.

That way you will be on record with both the local law enforcement and the WDFW enforcement.

# 9…. Remember to stay cool with your actions and position.

Good luck


Cowlitzfisherman