Polly Fischer Appointed to Fishing Advisory Group

Have you ever wondered how the state establishes fishing seasons and harvest amounts while meeting management goals? A longtime member, and past Board member, of the Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group is currently participating in this process representing the sport fishers from the Skagit area. Polly Fischer was recently appointed by the WDFW Director to the Anadromous and Marine Resources Sport Fishing Advisory Group. This group of 20 qualified individuals was chosen to serve as citizen advisers in 2004, providing guidance to the WDFW in establishing fishing seasons that meet conservation and harvest goals for salmon and marine fish. Members of the Anadromous and Marine Resources Sport Fishing Advisory Group are expected to participate in the annual North of Falcon season-setting process and communicate policy decisions to sport fishing groups in their areas. "We welcomed Polly to the Advisory Group due to her first-hand knowledge of Skagit River fishing," said Pat Pattillo, WDFW salmon policy coordinator. "Polly brings a great deal of energy to the table, has the ability to communicate with both fishery managers and fellow anglers, and understands the issues." The advisors serve as a key link between WDFW and the fishing community. Polly is a perfect fit for this need. She is well aligned with all aspects of sport fishing due to her active membership in the Puget Sound Anglers-Fidalgo Chapter, the Wildcat Steelhead Club and the Fidalgo Fly Fishers.

Polly has been attending North of Falcon meetings, which are an opportunity for discussion, analysis and negotiation among all interested parties for fishing seasons. Participants investigate the biological consequences of options for ocean, Puget Sound, coastal, rivers and Columbia River fisheries and try to achieve a consensus on an overall management plan for the upcoming fishing year. The process is supported by technical analyses provided by professional biologists from various state, tribal and federal management agencies. The North of Falcon season-setting process is an important part of the Pacific Fisheries Management Council's meetings held in Sacramento, CA where the Secretary of Commerce sets ocean commercial and sport salmon seasons for Washington, Oregon, California and Idaho.

Congratulations on your appointment, Polly and good luck with all of your efforts!