Our accomplishments for 2025 are pretty significant. Take a moment to check them out. Whether you are a fishing guide, charter operator or a sport angler, we habve membership options for you to be involved in an association that values our members input.

Advocacy & Fisheries Management

• Secured Ocean Option 3 for Coho and approximately Option 2 for Chinook at PFMC, increasing fishing opportunity statewide.
• Helped achieve ocean quotas totaling approximately 12,000 fish above the previous year, enabling full seven-day seasons in Areas 1–4.
• Successfully challenged long-standing ocean-centric management practices and elevated guide representation in federal and state forums.
• Engaged directly with PFMC, North of Falcon, and preseason forecasting processes for 2026.
• Played a key role in advancing permanent Olympic Peninsula steelhead rules, including expanded seasons, bait allowances, and reduced restrictions.

Legislative & Political Engagement

• Hosted multiple “Take Your Legislator Fishing” events with senators and representatives to demonstrate the economic and cultural value of guided fisheries.
• Participated in Legislature Day of Fishing, coordinating guide boats to educate policymakers.
• Drafted and submitted formal letters to WDFW leadership and commissioners on key issues, including advisory committee elimination and director support.
• Initiated discussions regarding formation of a Political Action Committee (PAC).

Steelhead & Skagit River Initiatives

• Supported development of funding strategies to monitor and reopen the Skagit River steelhead fishery.
• Collaborated with partner organizations and legislators on potential funding mechanisms, including stamps and endorsements.
• Monitored biological opinion cost estimates and NOAA requirements in pursuit of a Spring 2026 opening.

Membership Growth & Organizational Strength

• Increased membership by approximately 20 members during peak advocacy periods.
• Improved member engagement through outreach efforts and planning for SMS/text communication tools.
• Expanded leadership capacity by involving additional members in PFMC and North of Falcon processes.

Communications, Outreach & Visibility

• Strengthened public and agency relationships through consistent participation in commission meetings and public forums.
• Planned and invested in new marketing materials, including banners and QR-enabled assets.
• Supported industry fundraising events such as Hatchery Wild Coexist.

Financial & Governance Oversight

• Maintained strong financial standing throughout the year.
• Conducted board elections while preserving regional representation.
• Provided members with timely updates on tax guidance, regulatory changes, and compliance issues.

Social Media Platform Performance Report – Wheeler Marketing

Facebook

• Followers increased 10.6% (1,292 total)
• Views increased 138.7% (100,909 total)
• Average reach increased 46%
• Mentions increased 207%