only place you will ever see one is on a hatchery stream, so what's the big deal? If done right the proceeds can go back towards habitat and other stream improvements. What real harm has the boxing day derby done to the Vedder? Got more people out fishing and created awareness for the place. Derbies can or could do more good than harm if managed right and the event was focussed on proceeds and such going back into the system it has been held on. Derbies where all the proceeds go to charities may be good for the charity but will do little to help out the river it was held on.
Derbies are the least of our worries in my opinion as so many other factors threaten our fish stocks, our river systems, other habitat issues and our angling opportunities.
As I mentioned in my Boxing Day Derby a record $13,873.12 profit was raised, thanks to the work of the Chilliwack Fish and Game Protective Association. This will find its way in to habitat restoration work etc.
I think you will find the recreational sector works harder than most in protecting fish stocks and the habitat they call their home.