Steve...I think it is important to point out that there are 14 chapters in PSA and all of them are very independent. When we vote at the state board meetings it usually isn't a vote to endorse a special issue like WSR. I missed the March meeting where WSR was discussed. The chapters on the OP are against it I think. PSA does not focus on steelhead issues like WSC does so it should be no surprise that we don't take the lead on large steelhead issues like the moratorium. With a big , diverse, group we can't agree on many things. What we do agree on is moving the North of Falcon process forward with proactive measures to improve sports fishing. Also it is important to know that the REEL NEWS and the writers who voice their opinions there are not the "official" mouthpiece for PSA. It so happens that many of the people who have some standing on the sports fishing scene are members of PSA and contribute to the paper.

To respond to the ridiculous claim that PSA and commercial fishing interests share the stage. I would say that nothing is further from the truth. The WDFW Region 5 managers down on the Columbia River are the ones who petitioned the NMFS to triple the allowable mortality impacts on ESA fish. This is specifically designed to allow the commercial fleet to target more fish in the river. I think it is safe to say that most PSA members are against that.

I understand that this is predominantly a steelhead board and so anyone who speaks up against WSR is soundly bashed and shut down. Many people believe that WSR is a good idea but do not share the belief that the moratorium is the way to go. I think there is some merit to the belief that WSC is a special interest group with a narrow agenda. With that said, I would rather have them doing what they are doing than not. I think there is a lot of anecdotal evidence showing that alot of supporters of WSR and the moratorium support the plan because they believe that catch and keep fishermen are a low form of life and wish they were not on the rivers. WSR will reduce the crowds of those undesirable "crackers" so it is good for that reason.

This board resorts to personal attack alot and it is tough sometimes not to respond in kind. People here have crushed opposition to the WSR policies. To me it is unfortunate because there are definitely two sides to this story. Apparently only one is welcome here.
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