I'll be buying one and likely always will.
I haven't fished for steelhead in three years and don't see it happening again soon, but I probably fish more now then I ever have.
The species I fish for have changed, but some that are pretty cool and fun to target.

Though fishing isn't what it used to be, it is still a release valve and keeps me on an even keel. You'd probably be reading my obit soon if I didn't fish.

Being on the beach yesterday morning at 6:00 with just the eagles keeping me company was a pretty good feeling. I fished four other beaches and didn't see another soul fishing. Fishing was pretty good as well.

Salmon and steelhead are certainly the gold standard. If they are the only species a person likes to fish for, I can easily see why and can't blame them for not buying a license.
As hard as they try, WDFW hasn't broken me yet.
SF