RE: "No one wants hatchery fish".

Not to pick on this comment, but we need to keep in mind that your average fisherman does not have the experience, expertise or success that many of you have had on steelhead.

The majority of you here are "hardcore" steelheaders, and forget (maybe) that many are just now entering the time when they are able (physically, financially and time wise) to learn how to pursue steelhead.

Your success and knowledge gained about this resource are to be greatly respected, but there are thousands who fish yearly for steelhead whose success is no where near yours, nor may it ever be. I know a bunch of fellows that have fished for steelhead off and on for years...hooked a couple but never yet brought one to the beach. Others that have caught one or two over the years, and still others looking to get that first hook-up.

Personally speaking, I would be overjoyed in catching a hatchery fish. Not as "elite" perhaps as a wild fish , but all the same it is a fish that grew (mostly) in the river, went to sea and spent time to grow, dodging seals, sea lions etc., munching all the treats the ocean had to offer and is now back where he started...meaner, bigger and looking to make more of his kind. Sounds like a steelhead to me.

These resources are managed for all fishermen, and while some of us get the chance to fish more, or we manage our lives to allow more time to fish and spend the time/effort and cash to learn, not everyone can attain the skill of some of you, and would be overjoyed at a hatchery or wild fish.

Not getting down on anyone...just offering a different perspective.

Mike B (a hardcore rookie)