I hate these bottom bouncing threads but:
*why have any opening if a run is threatened
*the ceremonial or whatever opening should be closed if the stocks are threatened
*recrational fishermen get last place after the the commercial and First Nations right to fish (read the Skeena thread)
*more recreational fishers than both other groups catch less fish overall anyway
*I don't feel we should be given the shift because of DFO regs that seem biased, and promote a disrespect for the regulations in general
*recreational fishers provide more bang for the buck than the others, so if money is the issue we should be first consideration
*we don't have a business lobby behind us so it's an uphill battle having our say (join angling organizations that protect our rights).
Chastising other fishers because of there technique on the Fraser (I hope not to see that on other rivers though for Krist's sake) just pits the recreation group against each other. I know some people can accurately BB for Springs by choosing the right slot on the Fraser so good for them. Bar fishing for Springs has been around for ages and should be promoted as a more ethical way of fishing, but again if it's for conservation close it down for everyone. Nets do way more damage. The commercial fishers have wiped out more runs. Native guys using nets have the same affect.
Disclaimer: these are my opinions for the moment
I don't see the point in threatening a closure for the recreational sector and leaving the drift nets and call it conservation. I'm calling B.S.(that doesn't mean Big Steel)