Todd,

Good post. Thanks.

A problem, I think, is that debating is a lot less fun, and much more work, if the rules require you to stick to facts and logic instead of opinions and emotional appeals.

Bruce,

I understand your point that WSR means some wild steelhead will still die. But the CNR mortality science evidence indicates that it will be one-twentieth as many wild steelhead dying as would have been the case with the former regulation. If I understand you correctly, you object to this reduced mortality and feel that the four affected river systems should be closed to all fishing instead. I agree that would be better for the fish whose lives are spared, but I don't think it's going to make a significant difference in short term steelhead population productivity.

How about this: if WDFW can provide greater fishing opportunity as a result of a WSR regulation, without adversely affecting the steelhead population, and the alternative is a complete closure to fishing, is that a desireable social and biological outcome?

Or does it cause the sky to fall and PETA to take over our fish resources?

Sincerely,

Salmo g.