[QUOTE]Originally posted by grandpa2:
[QB] In light of the rampant explosion in Indian gaming why do the tribes even bother fishing? I say it is just because they can.


I say it's because they enjoy it. I many commercial fishermen, tribal and nontribal, fish for the same reasons we do. They like the outdoors, they like the challenge and they like competing with each other. And it may well be the tradition they grew up with.

Also, do not forget that not all tribes are doing that well and not all tribal members benefit from the huge profits.

Bill Gates has made a ton of money. I haven't seen much of it. Your question could be turned around to ask if you have so much money, why do you fish?

Please do not think I am a supporter of tribal fishing rights. I am not. I think Bolt was wrong! But I have learned to accept the fact that like it or not, it is the law of our land.

I believe all concerned would have been better off if we interpreted the "fish in common" language as allowing them to fish under the same rules as all of us. I would even go so far as to give them some sort of priority in obtaining commercial licenses, but that’s, as far I would go. Still I can understand their desire to be on the water and to make a living from the rivers and oceans.