Fish Sniffer Editorial Policy

August 16, 2004

"I just want to go fishing," is a frequently heard statement from Fish Sniffer readers. Unfortunately, times have changed very quickly and, for a large percentage of our readers, dealing with fishery issues has become a time consuming part of the sport. We remember reporting 60-80 pound bags of rockfish plus ling cod a short seven years ago, and now you can't even fish for them most of the year. We are now seeing the closure of 350 miles of the California and Oregon coastline to salmon fishing, due to the huge Klamath River fish kill, as a very real possibility. The current state of fishery affairs has made it imperative the Fish Sniffer has a clearly defined editorial policy our readers understand.

Political Endorsements

The Fish Sniffer has been in publication for over twenty years and has not officially endorsed a political candidate. We intend to maintain that policy in the future.

Our job is to keep our readers informed about fishery related policies and actions taken by office holders and, to the best of our ability, provide policy information relating to fisheries on new candidates running for office.

Our perspective is by nature narrowly focused on fishery issues. It is your job as a voter to decide how heavily a candidate's position on fishery issues weighs in comparison to their positions on other issues when making your voting decisions.

Over the years, we have editorially condemned - as well as supported when appropriate - the actions of Republicans and Democrats alike. We will continue to take to task any person or organization whose actions negatively impact fisheries - and likewise praise those who are working to restore our fisheries.

Angler Rights, Fisheries and Conservation

The Fish Sniffer is an advocate for the angler's rights to fish, as guaranteed by the California State Constitution and public trust law. At the same time we believe it is equally important our children and grandchildren will be able to enjoy the sport as we do, so conservation of our resources and restoration of fish habitat is vital to the future of our sport.

This is a very fine line to walk. We do our best and will certainly make a bad call from time to time, but are quick to make corrections when necessary.

Diversity of Opinion

We value the opinions and feedback from our readers. The diversity of opinions allowed to be expressed on the Fish Sniffer Message Boards reflects this.

We believe the amount of information available is directly proportional to the quality of decisions made and actions taken on any issue.

Feel free to intelligently disagree with our opinions. Using facts and evidence, rather than name-calling, is the best way to persuasively present your opinion.

Daniel Bacher & Richard Alves
Editors