The bill aims to establish recreational licensing for smelt, crawfish, and carp in Washington State to enhance compliance and education regarding fishing regulations. It recognizes the growing pressure on natural resources due to population growth and the need for better management of previously unregulated species. The legislation highlights the importance of protecting threatened species like eulachon (Pacific smelt) and aims to improve enforcement against illegal fishing practices that may harm regulated species. Additionally, it seeks to educate the public on distinguishing between native and invasive crawfish species.

Amendments to RCW 77.32.010 include the removal of the exemption for carp, freshwater smelt, and crawfish from requiring a recreational fishing license. The bill specifies that a recreational fishing license is not required to fish for carp in Moses Lake or Vancouver Lake, thereby allowing for more targeted management of these species while still promoting responsible fishing practices.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 77.32.010
Bill as Passed Legislature: 77.32.010
Session Law: 77.32.010