WDFW no help

My experiences with Washington public boat launches was echoed in Dary Liepelt’s letter to the editor (Frustrated with public launches) in the July 17, 2005, edition of the Sunday paper. The launches at both Deer and Loon lakes are deplorable. Clear, Silver, and Newman lakes are no better. Many times the water isn’t deep enough to launch the boat and the eroding concrete slabs present a danger to your trailer axles.

Dary suggests that frustrated fishermen call the Washington Department of Fish and Game to register a complaint. That’s good advice, but be prepared for even more frustration. I and several of my fishing friends have called to complain and each phone call resulted in nothing more than a lecture on the budget woes of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. When we asked why Idaho, with fewer fishermen and less revenue, has better facilities (Hauser, Fernan, and Hayden are good examples) we never received a reply. My friends and I have called Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife on several occasions to offer ideas and input, but we are generally met with a negative response.

Rather than risk my trailer axles or do damage to my boat motor at the pathetic Washington public launches, I find myself staying home more. At some point, the purchase of a fishing license will no longer be worth it.

Dustin Stum

Spokane Valley