CHESTER ALLEN THE OLYMPIAN


Anglers and hunters spend big bucks on licenses and fees in Washington.

From 2003 to 2005, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife expects to collect $57.1 million from anglers, hunters and commercial fishermen.

So, why can't Fish and Wildlife raise fees to ease the pain of state budget cuts?

It might, but the agency plans to be very careful.

Jeff Koenings, Fish and Wildlife director, plans to ask the 2004 Legislature to pass a bill that would transfer license fee authority from lawmakers to the state Fish and Wildlife Commission.

"Anglers and hunters pay their own way right now," Koenings said. "So, we can't charge too much, or people will say, 'I'll go to Idaho or Oregon.' "

Fish and Wildlife will pitch a plan to sell a $30 wildlife stewardship decal to help pay for wildlife viewing areas and programs, like Tumwater Falls Park and Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve. Hunters and angler license fees now pay for the so-called "watchable wildlife" programs.

Fish and Wildlife asked for license fee increases during the 2003 Legislative session, but lawmakers refused.

Still, there is a trend in state government to increase fees for user groups, said Marty Brown, Gov. Gary Locke's budget director.

Rep. Mike Cooper, the Edmonds Democrat who chairs the House Fisheries, Ecology and Parks committee, said he is willing to look at the proposals.

Anglers and hunters are willing to pay for their sport, Cooper said.

"People came in last year and said, 'Raise our fees,' " Cooper said.