Author: News

Washington anglers are now required to have a recreational fishing license for freshwater smelt, crawfish, and carp. The law, which eliminates the fishing license exemption for each species, went into effect on June 6. The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife said in a statement that the license requirement is aimed at improving fishing regulatory compliance. “As Washington’s population grows and recreational fishing activity increases, we often feel the strain on our natural resources,” said Kelly Cunningham, WDFW Fisheries Program Director. “A fishing license requirement can help promote sustainable fishing practices while protecting endangered species.” A Washington fishing or shellfishing…