Contrary to what some of the experiences being described here, all of my trips so far this season have been very pleasant, with or without fish. I haven't come across a single person who would practice questionable techniques. Everyone has been fishing well off the bottom and looking for biting fish, giving other anglers enough space, asking for permission to fish nearby prior to starting. Two weeks ago I fished down below KWB and shared with at least ten other anglers who were all fishing bait, targeting coho specifically, not spooking the water by standing on dry bank. This morning, the run I fished was quite crowded (around ten people on each side of the river) but everyone respected each other's space, no one was dragging on the bottom, accidentally foul-hooked fish were released with great care.
Of course, I'm not disputing there are no infractions going on out there, but I personally believe the fishery has improved in the past five years and more people are getting it. I also believe the effort being put in on this and other forums which proactively educate new anglers by showing them how fun it can be when you entice a fish to bite. Ranting about the same infractions which we witness from time to time is not going to improve the fishery. The ones who are doing the harms are not even here to read about it, they are only concerned about getting the fish to bring home. There are two things people can keep doing to make things even better - Report all infractions to DFO's enforcement, show new anglers how to fish properly when they need advices.
Doggone Rod. You are always so balanced, reasonable and articulate.
I rarely weigh in on issues of flossers, snaggers, poachers, disrespectful or unethical anglers.... Not only is it an endless discussion that doesn't really interest me, but, from my perspective, they are just fish.
For me, there are other social issues that I am more concerned about and that I dedicate my time, energy and financial resources too.
I've confronted poachers before (just a couple of months ago, a guy who was smelt fishing before the Aug 15 opening) but I tend to not get too hung up over it on the C/V. Intentionally snagging fish on a hatchery enhanced river. Meh. There are bigger fish to fry (pun intended) and many other issues that are more important. If they leave with their limit of snagged fish, it's illegal, yes, but is there a great harm done? Not really. I don't like seeing it, but I choose not to get involved or to become a keyboard activist. Speeders, litterers, text and drivers, dog off leashers, poop not picker uppers, poachers, flossers...you pick your battles. This one ain't my monkey, but I applaud those of you who take it on.
On a fishing note, I'll be on the C/V tomorrow for the first time this season. Maybe our paths will cross. Cheers.
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Topic: 2015 Chilliwack River fall salmon fishery information & water condition updates (Read 521520 times)