Think we're doing something right? Something wrong? Want to give us your views on a particular issue? Then please write to us. To promote public dialogue on fish and wildlife matters, WDFW Director Jeff Koenings encourages you to drop him a line.You can e-mail the Director at director@dfw.wa.gov, or you can mail your letter to: Dr. Jeff Koenings, Director Washingon Department of Fish and Wildlife 600 Capitol Way N. Olympia, WA 98501-1091

The following e-mail message was received by WDFW Director Jeff Koenings From: Bill Tanabe To: director@dfw.wa.gov Date: 12/30/2002 10:24 AM Subject: FANTASTIC FISHING RESULTING FROM HATCHERY OPERATIONS I am 71 years old, have fished since I was 10. During the past 2 years I have had the best fishing ever on the Cowlitz from barrier down, Blue Crk, Chehalis, Satsop, Skokomish, Quilcene, Hoodsport, Minter Creek, Deschutes, McAllister, Nisqually, Skykomish and the Green/Duwamish, for steelhead, kings, coho, and chums. I have been fishing Alaska for 6 years, but other than halibut, the past 2 years here beats any year that I have had on Alaska rivers, especially for the money and time spent. I went out with a guide 7 times this past year, but have done even better fishing from the bank on my own, with friends. I belong to Trout Unlimited, and as far as I am concerned, hatchery fishery is essential and critical to our sport fishery. I think wild fish are important but to me fish in my cooler is the bottom line. Many of my neighbors and releatives also thank you for the delicious filets and smoked fish that I provide. Keep up the great work, and hopefully budgets will improve to reopen any hatcheries that have shut down or are scheduled to be closed. My friends and I do spend quite a bit on gas, food, and tackle, so the hatcheries are responsible for contributing to the economy, as well as fish for our neighbors and relatives.