Reeling in the Year

From the very beginning, the Northwest Steelheaders have been at the forefront of angling advocacy in the Pacific Northwest. Our theme, Reeling in the Year, invites a deeper look into what we have achieved through our work advocating for accessible abundant fisheries. It goes without saying that our accomplishments wouldn't be possible without your continued support. We’ve been able to champion bills that have increased angling access, advocated for salmon and steelhead restoration garnering national attention, and it doesn't stop there.

This year, we have fought to create angling opportunities by advocating for a comprehensive solution for our endangered salmon and steelhead populations. Through our Rally for the River we highlighted the urgent need for a plan to address salmon’s dire state, an effort we will continue to work on in the future. We championed an amendment to the Columbia River endorsement bill to incentivize ODFW to continue their commitment to keep non-tribal commercial gill nets off the lower Columbia River. Real change was made to enhance salmon habitat and improve hatchery practices through the broodstock program on the Clackamas River. We worked hard to advocate for conservation efforts that meaningfully impact our community and our access to fishing like SB 320 that provides veterans with no-charge daily licenses, tags, and permits on ours and other nonprofit organization’s outings. The Steelheaders are investing in a future of full-length fishing seasons and increased bag limits through all of our initiatives, and that won’t change anytime soon.

Restoration of our salmon and steelhead populations in the Pacific Northwest is our top priority. Moving forward, we will continue to build on this year’s accomplishments to bring ample fishing opportunities back to the Northwest. With your continued support, we can build off our success and carry on fighting for lasting protection of salmon and steelhead. We hope you’ll join us as we “Reel in the Year” through our Virtual Auction, registration opens Oct. 15th and bidding will open on Monday, November 8th. Can’t wait to see you there!

The Association of Northwest Steelheaders (ANWS) was founded in 1960 and is one of the oldest and most cherished conservation and sport fishing advocacy organizations in the Pacific Northwest. We are anglers dedicated to enhancing and protecting fisheries and their habitats for today and tomorrow. Our programs include youth conservation education, angler education, protecting public access to waterways, and advocating for fish.