fishnfellas
i agree that the bait fishermen you speak of are an issue, the 8-10inchers, powerbait people whatever you want to describe them as, though i don't think that every person that uses bait is a vagrent, poacher, or out to destroy the area. most lakes in this area of the state are hard hit by opening day anglers( as are most lakes anywhere the population is this high) which is why i think stocking those lakes is a good idea, it allows the powerbait/ plunkers to satisfy their urges until the lake emptys of those fish. when it takes a bit more work or knowledge they go home until the next opening day. the resident or carry over trout are usually still there after opening day because they aren't as likely to go for powerbait/ what have you. does that sound correct, or am i living a lie?

as far as those trout that have been caught released, caught released over and over, i'm not saying that i think they should be killed i'm saying that is a type of abuse that is overlooked by a HUGE portion of flyfishermen. putting that much pressure on a stream or river IS cruel to the population. there are also many blueribbon waters that are becoming overpopulated to the point where people are being asked not to release all of there catch, wether fly, lure or bait caught. why? because rainbow and browns are so agressive that they destroy the true native fish and because catch and release is not allowing the trout population to stay at a level that can be sustained in the long run, wether through disease or lack of food. does that mean i would keep the fish, probably not, virtually any fish that i catch, unless there is a specific reason, goes back. why? because i don't eat fish regularly.

i do appreciate what you are so strongly opposed to, but the getting in your face aproach tends to dig peoples heels in further rather then convince them to change. every person that uses the outdoors has room learn and much to gain by doing so, wether they fish with bait or not.