Hello, all.

Long time, no post. I guess I've been taking a break and refusing to participate in the off-topic discussions that have lately dominated this otherwise exceptional board.

However, on this one, I couldn't help myself. I apologize to those who couldn't care less and wish that this crap would end.

I am a lawyer, and what a few people on this board know, and most don't, is that I have spent the majority of my legal career as one of the Department of Fish and Wildlife's lawyers. Now that I don't work there anymore, I feel free to let that bit of info. out here.

While I agree that there are varying degrees of "badness" in violations, the fact of the matter is that violations are violations. When it comes to getting a ticket, snagging, keeping more than your limit, and taking even one more cast after killing your limit, all are going to get you in hot water if enforcement does happen to come along.

Lack of enforcement, or the feeling that if he's getting away with it, why can't I?, is never an excuse. Lack of enforcement gives all of us the opportunity to self-enforce, or even get all over the violator that you see on a river if you're that kind of person (Which I am on occasion).

It all comes down to a matter of respect. Respect for the others who fish for steelhead and salmon, or whatever. Respect for the fish themselves. Most importantly, it comes down to self-respect. If you need to violate a law to bring home a fish to impress someone, then you need to reevaluate the reasons why you fish.

I'm not perfect, nor is anyone else on this board, but I try my damndest to get as close as I can, especially when it comes to fish and game laws. It DOES come down to morals, and my biggest motivation to be lawful is not fear of enforcement, it's a fear of loss of self respect.

This is only my two cents, and people may feel otherwise. I challenge you to think about why you feel otherwise, if you do.

Peace, brothers and sisters.

Fish on...

Todd.