The Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association, in its work to explore opportunities to enhance fishing for sport anglers, met with top officials from the Oregon and Washington departments of fish and wildlife last week.
The NSIA Board met with the state agencies to exchange ideas on partnering to increase salmon and steelhead fishing opportunities in November, December and January. The meeting also gave the three organizations the opportunity to discuss collaboration in how to assist the common interests of sport anglers, guides and fishing-related businesses.
The NSIA Board met with Ed Bowles, Fish Division Administrator for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and Jim Scott, assistant director fish program for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife where the two state officials answered questions and talked about potential new fishing opportunities.
“I am encouraged by the fact that both agencies are working closely with NSIA staff to maintain and expand jobs while making sure conservation goals are met,” said Gabe Miller of Far West Sports. “The NSIA has a proven track record of successful partnering with these agencies to increase fishing opportunities. We are very pleased to build on these successes and we look forward to a continuing relationship that meets the needs of anglers, conservation advocates and business.”
B.G. Eilertson of Fisherman’s Marine said that increasing fishing opportunities during the late fall and early winter could help anglers stay on the waterways, and keep specialty businesses going strong during the traditionally slow time of year.
“We want to protect the fish runs, but also protect the businesses that create jobs, and economic benefits to the community,” Eilertson said. “The NSIA is always looking for ways to achieve a win-win for everyone, while making sure we advocate for sport anglers all around the northwest. The opportunity to meet with these two key officials ensures that the NSIA will continue to carry the concerns of the sport fishing community directly to the people who are making decisions and creating the opportunities for our fisheries.”
The meeting in Vancouver on Oct. 11, was designed to allow NSIA members to ask questions and brainstorm new ideas to help late-year fishing opportunities.
For more information, contact Liz Hamilton, executive director of the NSIA at 503-631-8859 or e-mail at nsializ@aol.com.