Washington DFW Seeks Fishing Gear Manufacturers to Serve on Advisory Group
January 17, 2014
OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking applications through Feb. 14 for membership on a new advisory group that will provide guidance on increasing angler participation in Washington's inland fisheries.

Up to 15 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the Retailers and Manufacturers Advisory Group for 2014 and 2015.

The department is seeking representatives from retail and manufacturing businesses with an understanding of recreational inland fisheries for non-anadromous species, such as trout, walleye, bass and panfish, said Chris Donley, inland fish program manager for WDFW.

"We're looking for leaders in the industries with first-hand knowledge of recreational fishing opportunities for resident fish in Washington," Donley said. "The goal is to refine our management of inland fisheries to not only attract new people to the sport but also to help ensure we continue to provide sustainable opportunities."

Members of the group are expected to meet quarterly to share ideas on developing partnerships designed to increase anglers' interest in inland fisheries, as well as provide feedback on inland fisheries policy and management.

Applicants should be decision makers at an outdoors-oriented business in Washington - preferably as CEO, general manager, president, or marketing director.

Applications must be submitted in writing with the following information:


Applicant's name, address, telephone number and email address.

Relevant experience and reasons for wanting to serve as a member of the advisory group.

Applicant's effectiveness in marketing to anglers and potential anglers.

Name and contact information for any individual or organization submitting an application.


Applications must be received by Feb. 14. Applications may be submitted to Kelly Cunningham by mail: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capitol Way N., Olympia, WA, 98501; or email Kelly.Cunningham@dfw.wa.gov .

Members serve as volunteers and do not receive direct compensation, but mileage reimbursement is provided by WDFW to attend meetings. For more information, contact Cunningham at (360) 902-2325.

Contacts: Kelly Cunningham, (360) 902-2325;
Chris Donley, (509) 892-1001, ext. 307