I'm not sure you can make an accurate comparison to Alaska. There are so many factors that contribue to their runs above and beyond C&R that it's not even worth mentioning. The fact that the fish don't have to migrate as far, have better habitat, less people and possible different tribal netting would all contribute imuch more to a better run. Those are all conditions we are lacking here.

All this "clamoring and complaining" as you so eloquently put it will hopefully inform people as to what is really going on and what the issues really are. Do you really believe the department who's mandate is to serve the commercial interest really cares about wild fish? The same department who didn't try to punish anyone for the mistake of the Mud Mountain Dam last year on the White River which resulted in the death of thousands of wild fish? Face it, they don't care. By accepting this, we, as sportsmen turn a blind eye to the problem. We should be telling the state that we won't accept more restrictions and they'll have to address the real problems now. Yes, this may save a hundred or so steelhead but by forcing the issue, we may be able to save thousands.

Honestly, am I the only one that sees the writing on the wall? After sportfishing is completely eliminated who will they blame and what will they do?