WDFW seeks applications and nominations for Puget Sound Sport Fishing Advisory Group

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking applications and nominations for membership on its Puget Sound Sport Fishing Advisory Group through Jan. 3, 2025.

The Department will select up to 15 qualified people to serve three-year terms on the advisory group to guide to WDFW on topics affecting recreational fisheries for salmon, rockfish, and other marine fish species in Puget Sound. 

“The Puget Sound Sport Fishing Advisory Group members provide insight between the Department and the sportfishing community,” said Lyle Jennings, WDFW Puget Sound recreational fisheries biologist. “As we plan sport fishing in Puget Sound each year, it’s important to us to collaborate with the people who are most invested in these fisheries.”

Advisors should have firsthand knowledge of and experience in marine or freshwater recreational fisheries in areas of Puget Sound and be able to communicate ideas effectively to fishery managers. Advisors are also expected to communicate fishery information and policy decisions to sportfishing groups they may be affiliated with. 

WDFW must receive applications and nominations by Jan. 3, 2025. Applications and nominations may be emailed to lyle.jennings@dfw.wa.gov or mailed to WDFW Fish Program, Attn: Lyle Jennings, P.O. Box 43200, Olympia WA, 98504. WDFW will notify selected applicants in early February.

Appointments become effective in February 2025. Applicants and nominees do not have to be affiliated with an organized group, and WDFW may reappoint current members of the advisory group.

The advisory group will meet virtually and in-person throughout the year. Most meetings are scheduled during the spring and summer. Several meetings will be held February through April during the annual salmon season-setting process, North of Falcon. In-season meetings will take place June through September during summer fisheries. More information about the group is available on WDFW’s Puget Sound Sport Fishing Advisory Group webpage.

Applications are open to all, and any group or individual can nominate a candidate. Applications and nominations must include the following:

• Applicant or nominee name, address, phone number and email address.
• Relevant experience and reasons for wanting and qualifying to serve as a member of the advisory group.
• Applicant or nominee’s effectiveness in communicating with sportfishing groups and constituents.
• Applicant or nominator name and contact information.

Compensation and reimbursements available

Advisory groups are a unique opportunity for people to share their knowledge and expertise with the Department. To reduce barriers for people to engage, WDFW offers compensation for advisory group members’ time and reimbursements for childcare, adult care, lodging, meals, and mileage. WDFW is following guidelines from the Office of Equity (PDF)  for advisory group compensation and reimbursements.

Washington residents who serve on advisory groups in a professional role and are otherwise compensated for their involvement are not eligible for compensation. Reimbursement rates are available on the Office of Financial Management’s website. Compensation rates range from $45 for one hour to $200 maximum per day.

All members of the public are invited to apply regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, or basis of disability.

Those interested in joining are also encouraged to review the WDFW Advisory Member Handbook (PDF) and the advisory groups and committees webpage for background information.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.