Bruce,
This is an interesting discussion and you bring up good points, as does Todd.

I don't fish for steelhead much, but do tend to lean towards restrictions requiring wild fish to be released until the population can sustain harvest again. (sounds like you do too Bruce) But with regard to WDFW, I might not always like how they manage the resource, but that's our problem. (angling community) WDFW is managing the resource for the state as a whole and future generations, not for only today's angler. I don't think those who support wild steelhead release are only doing it for selfish reasons. It sounds like you do.

Todd, now that I wrote that, I also don't think all who oppose WSR see the issue as having only 2 options, but I get the impression you have lumped everyone into one category.

Good debate, but IMHO, you two are not as far apart on this issue as you think you are.
JD

BTW: Us saltwater steelhead fishermen have been practicing WSR for years. It's not that different really because I can't seem to catch 'em wild or hatchery.

I feel guilty enough eating a wild coho in area 9 when just up the straights they have to release them. Same fish, but once they cross pt. wilson, they can be harvested. I leave the resource up to the state to manage, with my input of course.