SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 2292

BYRepresentatives R. King, Bowman, Sayan, Brumsickle, Basich, Brooks, Spanel, Smith, Morris, Day, Jones, Youngsman, Cole, P. King, Wood and Kremen; by request of Department of Fisheries

Authorizing family fishing days.

House Committe on Fisheries & Wildlife

Senate Committee on Environment & Natural Resources

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 15, 1990; February 20, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Metcalf, Chairman; Amondson, Vice Chairman; Barr, Benitz, DeJarnatt, Kreidler, Owen, Patterson, Sutherland.

Senate Staff:Vic Moon (786-7469)

                  February 20, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCES, FEBRUARY 20, 1990

BACKGROUND:

The 1987 Legislature allowed the Wildlife Commission to designate family fishing days in which fishing licenses for game fish would not be required.  As a result, the Department of Wildlife participates in "National Fishing Week" by hosting a free family fishing weekend.  "National Fishing Week" is sponsored by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Sport Fishing Institute of America.

When adopting the family fishing legislation for game fish, the Legislature did not provide for family fishing days for food fish, which are managed by the Department of Fisheries.

SUMMARY:

The Director of Fisheries may designate family fishing days.  On these days, a recreational fishing license is not required to fish for food fish or shellfish.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Loren Stern, Dept. of Fisheries (pro)