We recently received some news on planned cutback in Region two (Lower Mainland) steelhead management by the BC Ministry of Environment. Below is a short summary provided by BC Federation of Drfit Fishers's president Rod Clapton.

"Region 2 is planning to severely cut back on steelhead management in 2010. The current biologist who devotes only 50% of his time to s/h will be repositioned. Effectively no one will be spending time on s/h. The BCFDF voiced their concerns thru media & to Victoria staff (Andrew Wilson, Tom Etheir, Al Martin) Those gentlemen did follow up with Region 2 on our behalf. It is imperative you officially voice your concerns, particularly with Jennifer McGuire (Region 2 mgr). Ted Brookman, BCWF Region 1 President participated today in a conference call as a follow up to our Steelhead Summit in 08. Ted can confirm that effective April 1, 2010 that steelhead will be a forgotten species in 2010. Another indicator that according to our illustrious Premier we will have the "Best managed fishery in North America bar none?"

Below is a letter to Region two manager Jennifer McGuire by Brian Braidwood, the president of Kingfishers Rod and Gun Club.

"I am writing you today representing the Kingfishers Rod and Gun Club. We are the oldest private Rod and Gun Club in the province, throughout our fifty years we have fished for and fought for steelhead. From what I have heard, there soon will be no person in the Ministry of Environment for Region 2 dedicated to looking after steelhead. How does this happen after a promise of the "best managed fisheries in North America, bar none"? This is not proper management in any sort of way. Steelhead are an indicator species for the overall health of the environment and they are in serious trouble. This government is just walking away from them? Our organization has spent tens of thousands of dollars on steelhead projects. This money was earned through volunteer fundraising, hard work and the dedication of many people. All while fighting for government to take responsibility for this precious species of fish. Most of the problems with steelhead in Region 2 are a direct result of people. Destructive logging practices, damming of rivers for power and poor commercial salmon fishing practices to name a few. Once they are gone, they are gone forever. Another species taken off this planet forever, another in the legacy of the human race! Steelhead are not just another fish they are a way of life for many people in BC, please reconsider this decision."

Voice your concerns if you enjoy fishing for steelhead in the Lower Mainland today!

Send us a news tip! | Back to Fishy News