IMHO, it seems like the logical thing to do for wild fish is to enact a moratorium for complete closure on the rivers that only have wild fish in them, AKA- no hatcheries.

That would only work if netting was banned or very strictly controlled on those rivers. How realistic is that? not very, it sounds like. I have a feeling that is not supported by any facts that I have on hand, is that sportfishing is probably not at the top of the list when it comes to overall impact on the runs.

Ocean conditions, off-shore fisheries, and tribal netting are much worse. I think it might be a bit naive of sport fishers to try and lead an example by releasing all wild steelhead when the netting is indiscriminate.

What about a ban on retaining fish over a certain size that all would have to adhere to? Kind of like sturgeon. Would that work a little better?

Dave V. , it seems that I read that the Vancouver Is. recovery program benefited the most from the banning of netting on those rivers, correct me if I'm wrong.