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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Museum rethinks Cheney honor

The American Museum of Fly Fishing last week abruptly postponed a March 5 fund-raising dinner at the New York Angler’s Club to honor former Vice President Dick Cheney.

A museum spokesperson said the tribute to Cheney had been postponed until an undetermined date this fall.

However, fishing columnists are noting that the museum issued a press release in an attempt to justify the tribute after receiving thousands of responses from outraged anglers after the event was revealed in Fly Rod & Reel magazine by conservation editor Ted Williams.

The anglers apparently supported Williams’ view that while Cheney might attract donations to the museum’s coffers, the tribute would be a slap in the face to anglers who support fisheries conservation.

“Cheney played a key role in an administration that valued financial benefit over environmental protection of not just trout streams but all our rivers, lakes, wildlands and ocean shores,” wrote Eric Sharp of the Detroit Free Press.

Staff and wire reports

HUNTING

Meetings set on Idaho hunts

Based on low game numbers documented in recent aerial surveys, more restrictive elk and deer seasons are among proposals for 2009 fall big-game hunting seasons in North Idaho.

“Sacrificing some elk hunting now means we have a good chance for recovery in just a few years,” said Jim Hayden, Fish and Game Department Panhandle Region wildlife manager.

The proposals will be presented at public meetings:

Monday, 7 p.m., Best Western Coeur d’ Alene Inn.

Tuesday, 7 p.m., Priest River Senior Center.

Saturday, 7:30 a.m., Snakepit in Enaville.

March 16 or 17 (to be determined) in Sandpoint.

The Idaho Fish and Game Commission is scheduled to consider statewide proposals March 24 in Boise.

Info: (208) 769-1414; fishandgame.idaho.gov.

Rich Landers

FISHING

Spring seminars for anglers

A series of spring fishing seminars begins Thursday with a session called “Fish Finder Basics,” starting at 6:30 p.m. at Mark’s Marine, 14355 N. Government Way in Hayden.

The series will continue weekly through April 23 to cover a wide range of topics, including trolling with downriggers and planner boards, bass and walleye tactics, North Idaho pike fishing, and more.

The March 19 seminar will focus on seasonal fishing in the Northwest.

Info: (208) 772-9038; www.marksmarineinc.com .

Rich Landers