If you look at the numbers from pg 8 from this WDFW 2009 Sports Catch Report on license sales since 1971 table, it is appears that participation over the years has remained fairly level? I had thought participation had increased significantly along with the poulation, but unless I am missing something it does not appear to be the case?
It is a fact, opportunities around the state have diminished this time of year and the WDFW is directly responsible for that. To many fishermen on to few rivers available to fish causes Satsap issues everywhere. IMO more PS area rivers could be open for total CnR with selective gear rules Feb. and March. I know I would participate and not travel to wet a line.

http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01448/wdfw01448.pdf
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