I believe grandpa made good comments earlier about participation. If you join an organization, just don't go to a meeting once in blue moon and shoot the bull, but actually get involved in a project, or help the board members with some tasks.

Another thing to think about regarding what organization to get involved with. I believe organizations fall loosely into two catagories:

1. Fishing first, fish second
2. Fish first, fishing opportunity second, i.e the fish succeed, fishing opportunity will increase.

Kind of like the old Rep/Dem debate.

Whatever you choose, good for you for stepping up to get involved.

BTW the Wild Steelhead Coalition was founded on this board.