On February 15, the Washington Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus hosted the first “Fish-in at the Capitol” to celebrate the vast economic and conservation benefits provided by the state’s recreational fishing community and to introduce new anglers to the sport.
At the event, beginner children and adult anglers, and legislators and their staff, had the opportunity to fish for rainbow trout in an artificial pond provided by Troutlodge Inc. Those who caught tagged fish also claimed prizes donated by the Fish-in’s generous sponsors. Volunteers assisted with baiting hooks, netting fish, and teaching participants how to clean their catch. At the event’s conclusion, anglers were provided bags and ice to transport their fish home.
“Recreational fishing is big in Washington State,” said Senator Pam Roach, Co-Chair of the Washington Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus. “Conservation of resources, access to public lands, and enforcement of regulations are all important, but passing the interest on to the next generation is vital.”
The event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors, including: Coastal Conservation Association-Washington, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses, Northwest Marine Technology, Northwest Marine Trade Association, Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association, Puget Sound Anglers, Troutlodge Inc., Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Washingtonians for Wildlife Conservation.
To watch a video on the event, click here.
Studies conducted at both the state and federal level have found that the number of hunters and trappers have been on a generally declining trend over the past several decades. To increase recruitment, retention, and reactivation (R3) of hunters and trappers, which initiative do you think would have the greatest impact?
