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Bill

SB 5907

Providing for recreational licensing of eulachon, crawfish, and carp.

2023-2024 Regular Session Introduced by Marko Liias and 2 co-sponsors

Washington State would require recreational licenses for harvesting eulachon, crawfish, and carp to manage sustainability and fund fish conservation programs.

Executive session scheduled, but no action was taken in the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources & Parks at 1:30 PM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5907

Legislative bill overview

SB 5907 establishes recreational licensing requirements for harvesting eulachon (a small fish), crawfish, and carp in Washington State. The bill creates a licensing framework that would allow recreational anglers and harvesters to legally catch these species for personal use while generating revenue through license fees.

Why is this important

Currently, these species may lack clear recreational harvest regulations in Washington, creating confusion about legal catch limits and seasons. Implementing a licensing system ensures sustainable harvest levels, generates funding for fish management and habitat restoration, and provides recreational opportunities while protecting fish populations from overharvesting.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on harvesters: License fees could burden low-income residents or traditional/subsistence harvesters who rely on these species for food, potentially creating equity concerns
  • Tribal harvest rights: Eulachon and carp harvesting may intersect with tribal treaty rights and sovereignty, requiring careful consultation to avoid regulatory conflicts
  • Enforcement and compliance: Creating new licensing requirements requires sufficient Department of Fish and Wildlife resources for monitoring; inadequate enforcement could undermine conservation goals

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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