I'm trying to get a good number of different opinions on this:
I fish from central Oregon to Central BC, and was wondering what you guys think are the best non-profit fishing-related organizations to donate money to, or to volunteer for.

Stream habitat restoration would be nice, but a group that just promotes fishing would be great too.

Thanks.

DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON AMERICAN RIVERS

Cowlitzfisherman

How about Puget Sound Anglers?

There seems to be a group of very dedicated fishermen, willing to put time and effort into not only the resource, but the communities that support sportfishing.

They have worked with WDFW to establish kids fishing programs and several other programs to help the resource survive and thrive.

Frankly, I just joined, and am so far pleased to be associated with the group. Its worth your checking into.

Mike B

Any thoughts on Trout Unlimited?

Other organizations?

If I'm wrong, someone please correct me, but I don't believe TU is a non profit organization. I'm sure much has probably changed, but one of the reason the founding members of Puget Sound Anglers split away from TU was because of the abuses going on at the top. Leaders were basically just using their position for their own political gain or to earn profit. Again, if I'm wrong, someone say so because I don't want to give a good organization a bad rap.

Stay away from oregon trout, Washington trout, and the native fish preservation society.. They are all elitist groups who cater to flyfishermen, not the average fishermen.

Tillamook anglers is also a good group as well. Nw steelheaders is good as well. Don't forget the NSIA as well.

In no particular order:

RFA PSA TU

I belonged to Northshore TU many moons ago and found it to be a solid organization. I was more interested in salmon than trout and wanted more independence so I joined PSA.

What it boils down to is volunteering. Sure we need money to accomplish big things but we need volunteers to dedicate some of their time to the cause of enhancing sports fishing.

RFA is a national organization like TU that does lobbying in congress and here is our state. All the organizations can use enthusiastic new members willing to put in some time to make things better

www.friendsofthcowlitz.com

www.fishfirst.org/

I'd lay money the idea that Make-a-Wish could find some kids that would love to go fishing.

Support American Rivers!

Of course, the WSC at www.wildsteelheadcoalition.com would be an option as well.

I know RFA and PSA have some very good folks involved and have done some good things as well, but will not get any of $$$ due to their stance on a statewide wild steelhead release policy.

Yes Papaslap, Make-a-Wish does send kids fishing. About ten years ago, I took a young fella (unfortunately in the last months of his life) on a Kasilof trip for kings. His wish was to "fish in Alaska". A good recommendation!

I believe grandpa made good comments earlier about participation. If you join an organization, just don't go to a meeting once in blue moon and shoot the bull, but actually get involved in a project, or help the board members with some tasks.

Another thing to think about regarding what organization to get involved with. I believe organizations fall loosely into two catagories:

1. Fishing first, fish second
2. Fish first, fishing opportunity second, i.e the fish succeed, fishing opportunity will increase.

Kind of like the old Rep/Dem debate.

Whatever you choose, good for you for stepping up to get involved.

BTW the Wild Steelhead Coalition was founded on this board.