AT the risk of starting another cat debate from another poster, I have actually thought a lot about this. (By the way , if you think sea lions are cruel killers- check out the grizzleys)

I think on a fishing forum if you want a "so sorry', "that sucks", "sea lions should be shot" reply, you've already got it. But, to the general public, you just lost a fish. They don't care as their is another one down at Safeway. However, if the public safety is at risk, people will listen. I have no doubt that someone will be severely injured or killed by the rule of no taking the fish out of water to release. I have also thought of the lion grabbing the net and pulling me in. Now that is news! A nd that is the only thing that motivates the general public. If you only state personal issues , the public will not be concerned. When little Jenny gets bit, the audience will be open.

As far as hunting- killing sea lions, there are many other factors to consider other than the unfortunate actions of sea lions that have become aggressive and don't migrate. First off, did we play into this(humans normally do ) what is the percentage of fish taken ( <1%) always can be opposed)- is the hunt ,for the annoying ones or a free for all. just the rogue males? How many and how will this effect their reproduction. Will this effect the whales that prey on them and their reproduction?
I guess I think we have been a nation that has abused our resources for our convenience and we truly need to look at how we have contributed to this issue. Have the sea lions changed, or did we help it along. So many hatcheries and so many coveted "natives", I guess we know now that mother nature was right on!

So, don't think I want anyone hurt by an aggressive wild animal, I just think we need to look at long term effects rather than shoot outs resulting from anger.