To be a little clear on who is paying WDFW. It is license fees and the DJ/PR taxes. There is some GF from the state, but that amount keeps shrinking. They work for US, not for the State. That is why it grates on folks to grow hatchery fish for others (AK, BC, Tribes) to catch. That is why the push to not buy licenses has some value. Not only does it reduce WDFW staffing levels (probably not a good thing) but it reduces the pool of fish to catch. The Tribes are betting that we will continue to produce fish for them. Given how well the State already funds Education, Infrastructure, Mental Health, Public Safety I am sure the Leg would love to fund salmon hatcheries so the Tribes can fish.