Ya know, I have read this whole thread and for some strange reason just can't seem to get a good understanding of why everyone is concerned about a negative reaction from the folks in Forks if we go there to show our SUPPORT for them.

I would agree that the Forks residents (guides and just regular folks) are not pleased with the new rule. Can't argue with that, as their stocks are healthy, and many guides earn a living from clients who want to take one home.

But why would the Forks people be angry or upset at those of us who are willing to show our support for them? If the law holds (which it most likely will save very expensive court battles with the State) then CnR will become the standard, and like it or not the guides and all others who fish for wild fish will have to practice CnR.

Here's the rub: If a gang (gaggle?) of us head for Forks and let them know were not leaving them "high and dry" just because of some new rule, and that the guides will still have all the business we can push their way (it's still one of the top steelhead fisheries in the world!) then why be upset at us?

Not logical, at all, for them to be angry with us.

Now, if we went there and wore banners saying how we thought this (new CnR Rule) was a good idea (which its not for the OP) then I might see a reason for their anger directed at us...

But if we go there to show our support for them, let them know that, no matter what the legal rules are, we will still fish there and their community will reap the benefits of our dollars spent there, then why the concern?

And don't tell me its because they are a small town and that's just the way they are...I live in a even smaller town than Forks, and people aren't stupid or notional just because the population density is low, and they certainly aren't stupid enough to bite the hand that's feeding them and their families.

Sign me..

Mike (somethimes I just don't get it) B