Accomplishments Since 2018
The Accomplishments of the Washington State Guides Association (WSGA) reflect the dedication of our Executive Board and active members. Since forming in 2018, WSGA has grown into a respected voice for guides, charter operators, and sport anglers across Washington.
Today, WSGA is recognized as an official stakeholder in Washington fisheries. We work directly with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), lawmakers, and federal managers to protect fishing opportunity. As a result, our members now have consistent representation in key regulatory and policy discussions.
From the start, we committed to showing up. Therefore, we attend meetings, submit formal comments, and engage decision-makers at every level. Moreover, we collaborate with partner organizations to strengthen outcomes for our industry. Each year builds on the last, and our accomplishments continue to expand in both scope and impact.
Accomplishments for 2025
Advocacy & Fisheries Management
In 2025, WSGA secured Ocean Option 3 for Coho and approximately Option 2 for Chinook through the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC). Consequently, fishing opportunity increased statewide.
We also helped achieve ocean quotas totaling roughly 12,000 more fish than the previous year. As a result, Areas 1–4 operated under full seven-day seasons. In addition, we challenged long-standing ocean-centric management practices and elevated guide representation at both state and federal levels.
WSGA engaged directly in PFMC proceedings and the annual North of Falcon process. Furthermore, we participated in preseason forecasting for 2026 to ensure early guide input. On the Olympic Peninsula, we advanced permanent steelhead rules that expanded seasons, allowed bait in key areas, and reduced unnecessary restrictions.
Legislative & Political Engagement
WSGA hosted multiple “Take Your Legislator Fishing” events with state senators and representatives. Through these events, policymakers experienced firsthand the economic and cultural value of guided fisheries. We also coordinated boats for Legislature Day of Fishing to strengthen relationships.
In addition, we submitted formal letters to WDFW leadership and commissioners on advisory committee structure and director support. Finally, we initiated discussions about forming a Political Action Committee to expand our advocacy capacity.
Steelhead, Skagit & Organizational Growth – 2025
WSGA supported funding strategies to monitor and reopen the Skagit River steelhead fishery. We collaborated with legislators and partner groups on potential stamps and endorsements. Meanwhile, we monitored biological opinion cost estimates and NOAA requirements to support a Spring 2026 opening.
Membership grew by approximately 20 members during peak advocacy periods. At the same time, we increased engagement through outreach and began planning SMS communication tools. We also expanded leadership by involving more members in PFMC and North of Falcon meetings.
Our communications presence strengthened significantly. We maintained consistent participation in commission meetings and public forums. Additionally, we invested in updated marketing materials, including QR-enabled assets. We supported industry fundraising efforts such as Hatchery Wild Coexist.
Financially, WSGA remained strong. We conducted board elections while preserving regional representation. Throughout the year, we provided timely updates on tax guidance and regulatory changes.
On social media, Facebook followers increased 10.6% to 1,292 total. Views rose 138.7% to 100,909. Average reach grew 46%, and mentions increased 207%.
Accomplishments for 2024
In 2024, WSGA’s regulatory participation produced meaningful results. Our involvement in meetings led to the rescinding of an unpopular steelhead rule. We remained active throughout the North of Falcon process and related discussions.
WSGA became an active member of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation Northwest States program. We meet monthly to address fishing-specific issues and monitor legislative developments. As a result, we stay informed and proactive.
We also continued monitoring potential license limitations. Rather than taking a rigid stance, we focused on fairness and equal treatment for guides. Within the WDFW Guide Advisory Committee, five Executive Board members and one WSGA member served actively.
Community engagement remained a priority. For example, we supported youth involvement through participation in the Fish Hunt NW Kids Trout Derby. Internally, we lowered the lifetime sport angler membership fee from $1,000 to $250 to encourage participation.
Moreover, we resolved our IRS 501(c)(6) suspended status and implemented Fathom AI to improve meeting documentation. We submitted multiple letters to WDFW leadership, including input on the Region 6 Director selection.
Accomplishments for 2023
In 2023, three Executive Board members served on the WDFW Guide Advisory Committee, which WSGA helped establish. We also strengthened our social media presence and expanded outreach.
We submitted letters regarding potential limits on guide days at Buoy 10. Additionally, we created a Columbia River Chapter to enhance regional representation. We engaged deeply in North of Falcon and PFMC meetings, with attendance recognized by both agencies.
When an unexpected steelhead rule change surfaced within NOF documents, WSGA responded immediately. We joined other organizations in submitting strong objections. Subsequently, the rule was rescinded. This action reinforced the importance of transparency in fisheries management.
We also submitted letters supporting qualified PFMC candidates and opposing restrictive steelhead season petitions. Furthermore, we contacted WDFW leadership regarding Chehalis system closures to seek clarity and future collaboration.
Accomplishments for 2022–2020
Between 2022 and 2020, WSGA strengthened its influence statewide. Board members served on the WDFW Guide Advisory Committee and Coastal Steelhead Advisory Group. We attended town halls, stakeholder meetings, and North of Falcon sessions each year.
In 2020, during COVID-19 closures, we worked closely with WDFW, coastal charter associations, and the Governor’s Office. We developed a COVID-19 Business Safety Plan that helped guides and charters return to work. Additionally, we structured a long-term business plan to support future growth.
We consistently communicated with legislators on issues affecting sport anglers. We also requested legislative hearings regarding coastal steelhead regulations. Meanwhile, we partnered with Fish Hunt NW on sponsorship and outreach initiatives.
Accomplishments for 2019–2018
In 2019, WSGA played a major role in reshaping the proposed guide logbook system. Because we engaged early and consistently, the final version became far less intrusive and more practical. That effort remains one of our foundational accomplishments.
We successfully advocated for creation of the WDFW Guide Advisory Committee. Of its 14 members, five came from WSGA. We also hosted a “Take a Legislator Fishing” event on the Cowlitz River to highlight fishery conditions.
WSGA officially began in May 2018. We quickly built relationships with WDFW leadership and legislators. We addressed guide fee corrections for 2019 and clarified regional fishery closures. From day one, we focused on advocacy, communication, and professional representation.
Our Commitment Moving Forward
The Accomplishments of WSGA demonstrate consistent engagement, measurable results, and strong leadership. However, our work continues. We will remain present in every major policy discussion that affects Washington’s guides, charters, and sport anglers.