Received this in my email box last week. This Op-Ed piece penned by FS Buck Ryan of the Snake River Waterkeepers. His intro is below with the article following. A good read and truly valid. We all have to make our own decisions on this and other conservation topics. We feel it is important to … Read more
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]A cool one this Friday. Friday Foto moving style.
West Coast Steelhead rule.
A conservation slant on this one. We totally agree.
This week Save Our Smith, and this film by Conservation Hawks Chrome.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/150361506″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Our postion on the proposed Smith River Mine.
No. No thank you.
We could get into the long and short of it but you can do your research here. John posted a great blog about the Smith River Mine issue last June far more eloquently written than today’s version.
Just like Nancy said in the 80’s…Just say NO!
Check out the websites and the positions. Yes, we like products that come from mines. But selfishly we do not want this mine on the Smith River Montana. No.
Is that arrogant? Maybe. We still Vote No on the Smith River Mine.
Read this below from Save Our Smith website.
Montana’s Smith River is renowned worldwide for its clean water, rugged canyon scenery, and blue ribbon trout fishery. The Smith is Montana’s only permitted recreational river. The permitted section of the Smith River winds 59 miles through a remote canyon in the Big Belt Mountains. Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks classifies the Smith River’s fishery as high-value, owing to its bountiful population of rainbow, brown, westslope cutthroat, and brook trout. The canyon walls of the Smith also boast some of the best examples of Native American pictographs in Montana.
A small Canadian mining start-up, Tintina Resources, has partnered with Australian mining firm Sandfire, and has submitted an application to the state of Montana to build a massive copper mine at the headwaters of the Smith River, on the banks of Sheep Creek. The mine would drop below the water table, and Tintina would have to pump water out of the mine to keep it from flooding. The pumped wastewater would contain arsenic and other toxics. Tintina’s proposed copper mine is particularly concerning because it will mine through sulfide minerals, which when exposed to air and water can react to form sulfuric acid in a process known as acid mine drainage. Montana has a long legacy of mining projects that have contaminated our rivers and streams. The Smith River is not a location for another failed mining experiment.
Read on further at the Save Our Smith website and you too can sign the Petition. Send a message to Governor Bullock and remind our lead politician that the Smith River is dear to all Montanan’s hearts. It truly is a spiritual place for many in this state and beyond.
You truly cannot throw a rock in Montana without hitting somebody who has enjoyed an experience on the Smith River in Montana. So most of the residents understand this plight. This stand for a state treasure. A position against even considering allowing a mining outfit to ruin this precious resource.
Resources for your Tuesday afternoon. The bottom of the list includes the Mining Company Tintina website. Make your own decision…
A great quote from Derf Johnson of MEIC to leave you with today.
Recently a study came out from permit applicants for mining proposals all across the west. And 100 percent of them guaranteed that there would be no water quality problems. Eighty-five percent of them ended up having water quality problems.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]On December 22, the Upper Missouri River Watershed Alliance (UMOWA) released the Baseline Macroinvertebrate Monitoring Report 2015 for the Upper Missouri River, MT, prepared by David Stagliano. The purpose of this study was to provide baseline macroinvertebrate (bug) monitoring data in order to assess the aquatic biointegrity, or health, of the Missouri River. This study is the most comprehensive study of its kind thus far performed on the Missouri River. In addition to the study’s conservation significance, it has yielded a lot of information that may be of interest to Missouri River anglers.
Study Findings:
Samples were collected at ten sites on the Missouri River between Holter Dam and Cascade, at one site near Toston, and at one site near York’s Island. A total of 93 different macroinvertebrate taxa were collected. Of these, 47 were mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies (EPT taxa) which are of particular interest to fly anglers. The other 46 taxa were midges or non-insect organisms like aquatic worms, scuds, sowbugs, or snails.
The overall density of bugs was greatest above the town of Craig with densities averaging 12,000 individuals per square meter. As distance below Holter Dam increased, there were generally fewer bugs, but a greater diversity of different taxa. In other words, there are more total bugs upstream but a greater number of different bugs downstream. Samples taken near Cascade had the greatest number of different taxa found at one site (47). On average, approximately 27 different taxa were observed at each site.
Mayflies:
There were 21 species of mayflies identified. The dominant three were BWO’s (Baetis tricaudatus), Tricos (Tricorythodes explicatus), and Pale Morning Duns (Ephemerella excrucians). The dominant mayfly at each site was determined by season and the amount of silt present in the river bottom. Trico proportions increased with silt presence whereas PMDs and Baetis generally preferred riffle habitats.
Caddisflies:
There were 19 species of caddisflies identified. The dominant caddis was the Little Sister Sedge (Cheumatopsyche) but other net-spinning caddis (Hydropsyche sp.), microcaddis (Hydroptila), snail-cased caddis (Helicopsyche borealis), and long-horned caddis (Oecetis sp.) were also common. The large orange October Caddis (Dicomoecus gilvipes) was found throughout the sample sites but most common below the Dearborn River.
Stoneflies:
There were 7 species of stoneflies identified. They were observed sporadically across the sample sites but their abundance and diversity was greatest at downstream sample sites. Stoneflies were also common around the mouths of Little Prickly Pear Creek and the Dearborn River. The stonefly species collected included Golden Stones (Hesperoperla pacifica and Claasenia sabulosa), Yellow Sallies (Suwallia/Paraperla), Spring Stones (Amphinemura), and Green-winged Stones (Isoperla). Even one Salmonfly (Pteronarcys californica) was observed below the mouth of Little Prickly Pear Creek.
Seasonal Trends:
The study showed a seasonal trend in the makeup of the aquatic communities. Following the spring runoff, the overall abundance of bugs directly downstream of both Little Prickly Pear Creek and the Dearborn River was very low. This was probably due to riverbed scouring by the high spring flows in these tributaries. By summer, mayflies and caddisflies were numerous at most of the sites. As hatches tapered off during the fall period, mayfly and caddis numbers dropped and non insect taxa such as sowbugs, scuds, worms, and snails made up a greater proportion of the aquatic community.
Comparison With Historical Data:
Prior to this study, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) sampled several of the same sites during the mid-2000s. Compared to their study findings, caddis numbers have decreased during the last decade while midge and sowbug numbers have increased. This change may be due to increased sediment build up combined with aquatic vegetation trapping sediments.
As UMOWA continues to sample these sites each year, anglers will have a better idea how the macroinvertebrate community in the Missouri River is changing over time. This study will also help inform future river management decisions.
The table below shows all of the mayfly, caddisfly, and stonefly taxa that were observed for all the sample sites. LPPC site name refers to Little Prickly Pear Creek. Boulder site name refers to riprap bank above Dearborn River. US = upstream. DS = downstream.
- x = present but rare
- X = common
- XX = abundant
- XXX = dominant
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The following figures illustrate the macroinvertebrate metric averages for all of the sample sites during all seasons (spring, summer, and fall). Errors bars are standard error (SE). Blue arrows indicate where Little Prickly Pear Creek (LPPC) and the Dearborn River enter the Missouri River. For the site names, US = upstream. DS = downstream.
EPT taxa = mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies.
Use the slider arrows to view each of the five graphs. If you would like to view these graphs in the context of the full report, click here.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][us_image_slider ids=”16245,16243,16246,16242,16244″][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Occasionally greed loses. Even in Utah, the state leading the way to privatizing federal/public lands. This week, Utah Judge Derek Pullan struck down the states 5 year old “stream access”law (quotations denote sarcasm).
Never-ending hard work from the Utah Stream Access Coalition, and some common sense helped overturn dark-ages legislation. Good job fellas!
READ MORE:
While researching this news, I ran across the PERC website. Worth a read to understand the ways of the enemy. I’ll include a couple of quotes from their “Stream Access Across the West” Page:
“…vibrant fisheries in Utah may be sacrificed in the name of public access.”
“Montana has led the way in the erosions of private property rights…”
According to these guys, no one would be a good steward of a stream that the public could use. Why would you? The only reason to improve habitat is to improve property values!
Remember that there are plenty of folks around with views similar to this group. Remember it when you vote.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]
Speaking of battles, don’t forget to make your opinion known to Gov. Bullock and the Montana DEQ on the proposed copper mine at the headwaters of our local favorite, the Smith River. Go to SaveourSmith.com to learn how.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Headhunters guide JP Basile contacted me the other day asking us to let readers know that this is the final week from commenting on proposed regulations changes in Washington, some of which apply to Wild Winter Steelhead on the Olympic Peninsula (there are actually many rules changes to go through if you wish, affecting not only the Peninsula but other regions as well).
Highlights that will strike a cord with many of you include:
PROHIBIT WILD STEELHEAD HARVEST is so long overdue, and a testament to the shitty fisheries management my home state of Washington has long practiced.
Please click on the link below to see the rules changes and comment on them! You only have until Nov. 12 (Thur) to make your voice heard.
It only takes a few minutes to act.[/vc_column_text][us_btn align=”center” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwdfw.wa.gov%2Ffishing%2Fregulations%2Frule_proposals%2F2016-2017%2Fproposals.php%3FRegionID%3D2||target:%20_blank” style=”4″ label=”PROPOSED RULES CHANGES CLICK HERE” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2218px%22%7D%7D”][us_separator height=”20px” size=”custom”][vc_column_text]Bottom line? If you’re a conservation minded angler – and love Steelhead – these regulations are a no-brainer. They promote the health and future of Steelhead on the OP. They address the poor-practices of non-forward thinking anglers, the overall user experience, user conflict and Steelhead catch mortality. Most important, they promote the health of WILD STEELHEAD, the only kind that matter.
Below is a passionate note from JP, along with some pictures of his wife Teal and their family exploring the waters of the Olympic Peninsula:[/vc_column_text][us_testimonial author=”JP Basile” company=”Steelhead fanatic”]When I first asked Headhunters to share the comment page (WA. DFW Proposed Regulation Changes) about this topic I was very hesitant, especially when he asked if I would comment on how special these fish are. I am out of my element behind the keyboard, and sharing anything about Steelhead is not a great way to start your winter off. Bad Juju. They last thing you want is more people to share a run with. With the impact social media has had on fishing as a whole and specifically steelhead fishing, this was going to come with some heat. Possibly negative results.
I looked over on the couch where my oldest boy was asleep. He is now three, but his first trip to the OP he was just 3 months old. That was and still is my favorite trip up there. A week dragging him down the river in the rain, my wife feeding him on gravel bars, changing diapers in the raft, and we even had some decent fishing. It’s now in his blood. He has floated more steelhead rivers in his first three years than I did by thirty. So, when the thought of my son not able to teach his son or daughter about these special fish hit me, the parental instinct kicked in.
I instantly wanted to scream what these fish mean to us. I now wanted to share that, Steelhead will do that to you. They have a power that is unexplainable, not physical but spiritual. So to say this place and these fish are special is true and I want you to know that, if protecting them means more people, I will have to live with that to. I am asking anyone who is interested in helping save these fish for our future generation of Steelheaders to take two minutes and voice your opinion.
Thanks,[/us_testimonial][us_separator height=”20px” size=”custom”][us_grid columns=”6″ post_type=”attachment” items_quantity=”” images=”15214,15215,15216,15217,15218,15219″ orderby=”post__in” items_gap=”” items_layout=”gallery_default” img_size=”us_350_350_crop” overriding_link=”popup_post_image” breakpoint_1_cols=”6″ breakpoint_2_width=”768px” breakpoint_3_width=”480px” breakpoint_2_cols=”4″ breakpoint_3_cols=”2″][us_separator height=”20px” size=”custom”][us_image image=”15220″ align=”center” onclick=”lightbox”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]excellent images and video from NOAAclimate.gov
We’ been reading all summer that a potentially big El Nino event could impact North America this coming winter. It looks as though that forecast will prove correct. The Pacific is warming rapidly creating conditions that could create the strongest El Nino event on record:
“The forecast for us is to be anywhere from 2 to 2.5 degrees (Celsius) above normal. What that translates to is one of the strongest El Niño’s experienced since we’ve been keeping records dating 50 to 100 years ago.”
-Bob Nester, NWS
According to Nester, when this happens Montana always receives 75-90% less snowpack than average. Bummer.
“Statistically for example in Missoula, anytime we’ve had a moderate to strong El Niño, snowfall has been anywhere from 75 percent of normal or less. Each time.”
-Bob Nester, NWS
Here’s an excellent video from the NOAA explaining how El Nino works:[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/_Tuou_QcgxI”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Of course this news bums us out considerably. Drastic drought conditions will have an impact on our fly fishing conditions for 2016. And while low water sucks for both fish and fishermen, when combined with warmer than average weather, it can damage the resource.
We’re not all fly fishing nerds around here. Many of spend the winter searching for fresh lines at our local ski areas. No snow means no skiing. No boarding. No backcountry.
The only bright side is that we may have an exceptional winter (Nov-Apr) fishing season. We’re out there regardless, but you may be as well if things are warm and dry.
The impacts I mention above are all about recreating. But El Nino can have huge financial impacts as well, especially in a state like Montana that relies heavily on agriculture to drive local and regional economies.
How does this affect your 2016 plans for fishing in Montana? It really doesn’t. I always stress that air temperatures can often have a greater impact on the quality of your fishing. The water can be really low, but if it remains cool, both fish and fisherman remain happy.
For example, if everyone who reads this decides to move their fishing trip to June, the rivers will be empty in August. If the weather is cool, fishing in August could be stellar. And you could be the only one on the river!
I Like to gamble, and the above scenario would intrigue me. realistically, you should consider the weather forecast, although it does depend on where you fish. Drought conditions could mean tough August fishing on a SW Montana Freestone, OK fishing on the Missouri and Bighorn Rivers, and great fishing on the Kootenai in NW Montana.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]MORE INFO:
IN MONTANA EL NINO TRANSLATES TO LOW SNOWPACK
WARMER AND DRIER WINTER AHEAD FOR MONTANA
EL NINO BRINGS SEA SNAKES TO CALIFORNIA COAST[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Above: Montana guide James Whitescarver cleaning every inch of his drift boat.
A few years ago, preventing the spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) was all the talk. Wader manufacturers were producing non-absorbent boots with Vibram soles, Facebook was littered with ANS information, boat check stations were popping up all over the west, and every convention, trade show and meeting I attended included an ANS presentation.
In the high-speed, low-attention-span world we live in, you really don’t hear much about preventing the spread of New Zealand Mudsnails, Didymo, Zebra Mussels and Eurasian Watermilfoil anymore. Like ever. And we’re back to felt-soled boots.
Those who regularly travel on a route that has a Watercraft Inspection Station keep their boats clean. Guides like James Whitescarver (above), regularly travel between Missoula and Craig. He knows he will have to stop at Clearwater Junction to have his boat inspected by Montana FWP.
I have a feeling that James keeps his boat clean regardless, but not everyone does. Right now the Missouri is laying a pretty good scum-line on your boat.
During the “ANS Peak” one of the states mobile inspection stations was commonly set up at the Wolf Creek Bridge boat ramp. Haven’t seen it as much the last few years, but it may just be in a different part of the state.
ANS are a concern on the Missouri River due to the massive amount of “migratory” boat traffic we receive. If a species of concern is going to get transported somewhere via a drift boat, it’s pretty likely that it will end up here.
Likewise, you could easily “catch” something here, and transport it to your home river on your boat or trailer tires.
Please continue to keep your boat clean (and tires, waders, boots) and prevent the spread of ANS. You can pull into the drive at Headhunters and use our water, soap, brushes, etc. anytime. Many folks do on their way home.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Montana FWP has proposed several changes to fishing regulations that fly anglers should be aware of. A couple are controversial, including changes to the Upper Madison, and the proposal to allow keeping 1 native Cutthroat per day. Weren’t we told they were endangered only a few years ago?
Read this article by Ben Pierce at the Bozeman Daily Chronicle with comments by Craig Matthews (Blue Ribbon Flies), Bruce Farling (Montana TU) and Travis Horton (FWP Biologist).
The comment period has been extended until Oct. 3rd, so now is the time to voice your opinion. Let ’em have it…
To comment on the proposed changes visit FWP’s website at fwp.mt.gov, then click “2016 Proposed Fishing Regulations;” or email to fwpfsh@mt.gov; or mail to Joel Tohtz, Fisheries Management Bureau Chief, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, P.O. Box 200701; Helena, MT 59601.
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[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Our friend KC Walsh – owner of Simms Fishing Products – recently was a guest blogger over at American Rivers, as part of their Americas Most Endangered Rivers Series. Like many others, KC is voicing his position to a proposed mine in the Smith River headwaters.
Please go read the article: For Business Icon, Saving the Smith River is Personal, support American Rivers, and voice your opposition to the Smith River Mine.
KC is shown above with his family on the Smith River.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]
America’s Most Endangered Rivers – from American Rivers.
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Sara and I saw this incredible sculpture at the entrance to the ICAST/IFTD show in Orlando last month. Really amazing. Your eyes couldn’t stop looking at all the little bits of trash it was created from. Most of it was identifiable and relatable. Stuff you toss in the trash every day.
Here’s a great video from Costa talking about Washed Ashore and the great “Art To Save the Sea” projects they create.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Several comments on the toxic mining mess on the Animas River near Durango, CO. (It’s Like Deja Vu…) Glad you’re all in. And yes, as reported initially, the EPA is to blame (several of you pointed this out) and appears to have taken full responsibility.
Red Boat Mark points out another potential mess in the Parrot Tailings in Butte. There are old tailings and associated ponds all over the Rocky Mountains that could threaten clean water and fish. Someday each one of them will.
And while the EPA caused this one, I am going to assume they were investigating ways to fix the problem, and not deliberately trying to kill all the fish in the Animas.
Andy McKinley from DurAnglers also responded with a bit more information about the Animas and the long term effects mining in the Silverton area has had on that river:[/vc_column_text][us_testimonial author=”Andy McKinley” company=”Duranglers Flies & Supplies / Durango, CO”]Thanks for the article guys. This whole situation is a stressful one for us here in Durango, but we are holding out hope that in the long run this will bring more focus on the situation with the Animas and Silverton mines. Like you said, many mining practices are so shortsighted but have long lasting effects.
Truth be told, these mines have been leeching heavy metals and toxins into the Animas for a while now. It’s almost as if the trout and aquatic invertebrates in Durango have evolved to survive in water that, while beautiful looking, has high concentrations of heavy metals, alkalies, and a higher ph count. The sad part is the farther upstream you go, the worse the bug and fish life is until you get to Silverton…where nothing survives.
We are hoping and praying that while this disaster sucks in the interim, the long term will see the Animas recover better than ever. If you were ever fortunate enough to ride the Durango/Silverton narrow gauge railroad, then you have seen the upper Animas canyon. Quite possibly the best looking trout water in the state that holds very few fish.
Thanks again for the blog post. Here is to hoping that we seen these incidents decline in our lifetime.[/us_testimonial][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]
And now New Mexico is declaring an emergency over the Animas Spill, as the 3 million gallon toxic plume spreads downstream and into the San Juan River, a major source of water for the Navajo Nation.[/vc_column_text][us_btn align=”center” target=”_blank” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.outsideonline.com%2F2007011%2Fnew-mexico-declares-emergency-over-animas” style=”4″ label=”READ ARTICLE” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2217px%22%7D%7D”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Another f****** mining mess on another trout stream. This summers victim? The historic Animas River in SW Colorado. I used to hang out in the country a bit years ago. The Animas is a very cool river, and used to hold the Colorado state record Brown Trout.
You can read all about it in the link below. Sounds like the EPA was investigating an old mine with a revoked permit and there was a breach. I’m sure some will jump on the EPA. Let’s wait and see. Probably one of those old mining disasters that no one can figure out how to clean up. There’s a few of those around Montana.
DENVER POST LINK:
I do love how the fly fishing community jumps this shit quick on Social Media these days. Facebook was buzzing last night.
Mining is such a short-sighted practice. The only reasons I can see to develop a new mine in a fragile ecosystem are:
Hopefully incidents like this (and last summers Mount Polley disaster in BC) will convince citizens to stand up to mining interests that are motivated by nothing but greed. But we have to keep on it, like the devoted Bristol Bay crowd. The mining companies know that if they wait long enough, we will forget.
proposed Yellowstone Valley Mine
Use the comments to add any other mining projects that you know of in the works, especially if they threaten any of the worlds fisheries.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Header photo – KOB 4 News New Mexico
Following photo – Michael Constantine/Denver Herald[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”12783″ align=”center” size=”full” link=””][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Dillon MT July 25th @ Depot Theater & Park 6pm
Beaverhead Watershed Committee presenting this film for a fundraiser to help in the restoration of Poindexter Slough.
Head on down and enjoy the day, fish the Beaverhead and finish the day with a cool show and a few drinks.
The Sterling Ranch has been improving the bank structure for years.
There are several sites along the river that they have restored over the last two decades.
This project is no different. Laying rock down for clean cattle access and reduced erosion.
Fencing walk downs for cattle watering.
Applause to you the Sterling Ranch.
Thanks.
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Publicity about a proposed Copper mine at the headwaters of the Smith River is generating loads of criticism from sportsmen and women from Montana and abroad. While I haven’t heard or read an positive comments regarding the mine, I’m sure there are at least 2 or 3 Canadian mining executives who are in favor of it.
More absurdity in the never ending assault on the environment in the name of greed. More money for a handful of folks, in this case not even Montana or US citizens.
To many Montanan’s, this issue has become our own “Pebble Mine“.
Here’s a recent video from SaveOurSmith.com.[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/OQZx4eRmWqA”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]I’m not even going to waste time describing the beautiful Smith River or why it should be protected. Few that read this blog would not know.
You can help prevent stupidity from prevailing by signing this petition at TakePart.
Also, support groups like American Rivers, and Montana TU, and use the Save Our Smith Facebook page to spread the word.[/vc_column_text][us_btn align=”center” target=”_blank” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.smithriverwatch.org%2Fabout-the-smith%2Fprotecting%2F” style=”6″ label=”LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SMITH RIVER MINE PROPOSAL” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2217px%22%7D%7D”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Suddenly, the Bahamas are considering legislation that would affect foreign anglers ability to fish unguided – which has become popular in recent years – as well as prohibit foreign ownership of fishing lodges.
We know quite a few anglers who love to do the DIY Bonefish thing on Long Island or Eleuthera. Not so much for the quality as for the kick back, beer-in-your-hand low pressure style trip it provides.
We know far more anglers who visit the many fine Bonefish lodges on the islands, some of which are foreign owned.
Ben Bullis at The American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA) seems to be spearheading efforts to generate comments to the Bahamian Government.
I’m not totally hip to who the players are – it’s a little out of my realm – but it sounds as if a handful of Bahamian guides/lodge operators are trying to create an exclusive and non-competitive environment for themselves.
Sounds like Smithers, eh!?[/vc_column_text][us_testimonial author=”Ben Bullis” company=”AFFTA”]The proposed legislation would essential destroy the sustainable fishing industry of the Bahamas. [/us_testimonial][vc_column_text]
Typical of this type of pre-planned political move, the comment period ends this Friday June 26th! You can help out by copying the following message (provided by Ben Bullis/AFFTA), or writing your own and e-mailing it to fisheries@bahamas.gov.bs[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]Dear Sir or Madam:
I strongly oppose the proposed fisheries regulations currently being proposed for the Bahamas. The issue of protecting the fisheries resource is not one of ownership but rather one of sound, common-sense stewardship. It is in the best interest of the fishing lodges and outfitting operations – whether they are locally owned or foreign owned – to protect the resource on which their businesses depend. Further, every fishing lodge in the Bahamas provides the country much needed jobs. Please focus your attention on the health and protection of the fisheries and do not attempt to regulate the guides and lodges. The proposed fisheries regulations are quite literally a bad solution in search of a problem that does not exist. The traveling angler has many choices throughout the Caribbean and throughout the world. If the Bahamas passes this legislation and sends the message that destination anglers are not welcome in the Bahamas, then he or she will quite simply take their business elsewhere. Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,[/vc_column_text][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]
To learn more about the proposed fisheries regulations and responses to it, check out these links:
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Safety regulators said Exxon Mobil failed to adequately heed warnings that its 20-year-old Silvertip Pipeline was at risk from flooding. They said the company lacked procedures to minimise the spill when the line broke.
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The New Mexico Wildlife Federation’s Joel Gay summed up the sporting public’s frustration, “We don’t have a lot of water here in New Mexico. We do have 300,000 sportsmen and –women though. It would be really nice to be able to fish the resources that our supreme court says we have a right to fish.”
from OUTDOOR LIFE[/vc_column_text][us_image image=”12306″ size=”full” link=””][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]Via the excellent Hatch Magazine is an article by Ben Kryzinski about proposed fish eradication in Soda Butte Creek. Fisheries managers from several agencies hope to get rid of non-native Brook Trout that they claim threaten native Cutthroat. Well known to many fly fishing folk, Soda Butte is in the Lamar drainage, along with the all too famous Slough Creek.
(no photo credit given but we assume Ben Kryzinski of the beautiful image above)
Response seems divided. It usually is when anglers have to choose between their personal right to fish and environmental perfection. Here’s a link to an ongoing thread discussing Soda Butte Creek.
With dwindling populations of pure-strain Cutthroat in Montana – and elsewhere – the issue of eradication/restoration vs. “it ain’t broke don’t fix it” seems to become more polarizing among the angling community every season. It’s great when you read about some high-country restoration project in another drainage or state, but don’t attempt it on my weekend playground.
Missouri River anglers may not comprehend the idea of restoration, as we live and fish on the ultimate melting pot. Non-native Browns, Rainbows, Walleye and – coming soon – Pike, attract plenty of anglers and no complaints. I’m sure the next generation will fish for Smallmouth below Holter as well.
While native species are long gone in Craig, everyone seems to be having a great time catching loads of non-native (but naturally reproducing) fish. We know that many of our friends and customers regularly make the drive/hike to the Lamar/Slough Creek/Soda Butte area to enjoy the incredible scenery, wildlife and minimalistic fishing.
What are your thoughts on the Soda Butte proposal, and restoration in general?[/vc_column_text][us_btn align=”left” target=”_self” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hatchmag.com%2Fblog%2Fshould-yellowstone-eradicate-trout-soda-butte-creek-order%2F7712490″ style=”6″ label=”Hatch Magazine Article” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2217px%22%7D%7D”][us_btn align=”left” target=”_self” link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Ffwp.mt.gov%2Fnews%2FpublicNotices%2FenvironmentalAssessments%2Fconservation%2Fpn_0026.html” style=”6″ label=”Montana FWP News Release – Soda Butte Creek” custom_width=”200px” css=”%7B%22default%22%3A%7B%22font-size%22%3A%2217px%22%7D%7D”][us_separator show_line=”1″ line_width=”default”][vc_column_text]
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