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In this episode of the Badger Fishing Show, Phillip Olson & Alex Van Hin sit down with Nello Picinich, Executive Director of Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Washington, for an in-depth discussion about one of the most controversial fishing issues in the Pacific Northwest: non-tribal commercial gillnetting.

Nello explains how gillnets work, why they are considered non-selective, and what the latest observer data reveals about bycatch and mortality of wild salmon and steelhead. The conversation also explores the history of CCA, the organization’s efforts to reduce non-tribal gillnetting, and the $14.5 million Washington State gillnet buyback program.

Topics covered include:
- How gillnets operate and why they remain controversial
- Release mortality and bycatch impacts on ESA-listed fish
- Observer data and the lack of recent monitoring
- Hatchery fish, selective fisheries, and terminal areas
- The economics of commercial harvest versus recreational fishing
- The Columbia River reforms and Washington's gillnet buyback program
- Why this issue continues to divide anglers, advocates, and policymakers

Whether you're a recreational angler, conservation advocate, or simply interested in how fisheries are managed, this episode offers a detailed look at the science, politics, and economics behind one of the most debated harvest methods still used in Washington State.

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Welcome to Episode 1 of The Badger Fishing Show.

In this first episode, Alex Van Hine and Phillip Olson sit down to discuss a question that recreational anglers across Washington have been asking for years:

Does the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife really listen to fishermen?

We share how we first connected, our involvement in the North of Falcon process, and why we believe anglers need a stronger voice in fisheries management. We also discuss hatchery surplus, public records research, and our goal of breaking down complex fisheries issues into clear and understandable conversations.

In this episode:

• How Phillip and Alex first connected
• North of Falcon explained
• Hatchery surplus and excess fish sales
• Why anglers feel unheard
• The future of this podcast
• Giving fishermen a voice

Our mission is simple: take complex fisheries topics and make them understandable, actionable, and transparent for everyone.

Whether you’re a salmon angler, policy advocate, or someone who simply wants to understand how fishing seasons are decided, this podcast is for you.

Text your gear requests, fishing tips, and videos to the Badger Tip Line: 360-620-1333. Your tip may be featured in a future episode.

Subscribe and join us as we dig into the issues impacting fishing opportunities throughout the Pacific Northwest.

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