5347-S AMH NR H3058.1

SSB 5347 - H COMM AMD

By Committee on Natural Resources

    Strike everything after the enacting clause and insert the following:

    "NEW SECTION. Sec. 1.  The legislature finds that the fish and wildlife commission provides juvenile fishers, under the age of fifteen, with an opportunity to fish in waters that are reserved for this age group.  The legislature further finds that providing fishers under the age of eighteen with increased opportunity to fish with recreational gear will provide wholesome activities that will better their lives and instill an appreciation for the state's natural resources.  Society as a whole will gain from these positive, youthful experiences, and an important tradition of Northwest life will be perpetuated.  Many youthful fishers will be exposed to a natural experience that will teach them self-confidence, respect for the resource, and remain with them for the rest of their lives.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 2.  The fish and wildlife commission shall identify, establish, and expand upon specific areas throughout the state that are suitable for a youth fishing-only program.  The department shall restrict the fishing opportunities in these waters to persons less than eighteen years of age.  The length of the fishing season for youth fishing-only waters shall be as long as possible to encourage participation year around.  Some youth fishing-only waters shall be easily accessible from urban areas so as to encourage inner-city youth to participate in fishing activities.

    The department shall, as practical, use fish produced in private and public fish hatcheries as a basis for fishing opportunities in youth fishing-only waters.  The purpose of reliance upon hatchery-produced fish is to provide readily available recreation without adversely impacting naturally produced salmonid stocks.  The use of hatchery-produced fish enables the catch and retention of the fish by youth fishers without the requirement for catch and release fishing.  The department may establish some waters for youth catch and release fishing only, but the major emphasis of the program is upon allowance of catch and retention.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 3.  The department shall work with cooperative groups, regional fisheries enhancement groups, government agencies, Indian tribes, private fish farmers, and civic groups for the purpose of expanding youth fishing-only waters throughout the state.  Organized groups that sponsor group outings for youth fishers shall be encouraged to the fullest extent.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 4.  The department of fish and wildlife shall report to the appropriate committees of the legislature on the progress of the youth fishing-only program on or before January 31, 1998.

NEW SECTION. Sec. 5.  Sections 2 and 3 of this act are each added to chapter 77.32 RCW."

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