Washington State Guides Association Statement on the Elimination of the WDFW Fishing Guide Advisory Group

The Washington State Guides Association (WSGA) expresses strong opposition to the recent decision to eliminate the Fishing Guide Advisory Group, as directed in the 2025–2027 Washington State Operating Budget.

Formed in 2019 at the urging of WSGA, the Fishing Guide Advisory Group was established by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to foster improved communication and collaboration between the Department and the state’s guiding industry. Since its inception, the group has played a vital role in shaping practical, effective policies—most notably by advising on the development and implementation of the fishing guide logbook reporting requirement. The group’s work has helped ensure that this data collection effort is both user-friendly and effective in meeting the Commission’s conservation and management goals.

Beyond technical guidance, the Advisory Group has functioned as a critical platform for dialogue, transparency, and trust-building between the Department and the professional guides who work on Washington’s waters every day. Its contributions have strengthened not only regulation and compliance, but also public confidence in the Department’s decision-making processes.

In a message to Advisory Group members on May 22, 2025, WDFW confirmed that the group would be eliminated in accordance with legislative budget cuts. The agency noted that this action was not based on a qualitative assessment of the group’s performance but was instead part of broader cost-saving measures required by the legislature.

While WSGA recognizes the financial constraints facing state agencies, we believe this particular cut is counterproductive. The elimination of the Fishing Guide Advisory Group removes a valuable conduit for stakeholder input at a time when informed, collaborative management of our natural resources is more important than ever.

The Advisory Group is not an example of unnecessary bureaucracy—it is a model of constructive engagement. It represents experience, local knowledge, and community partnership. These are not expendable qualities; they are essential components of effective governance and resource stewardship.

WSGA has sent a formal letter to WDFW Director Kelly Susewind urging the Department and legislative leaders to reconsider this decision. We advocate for alternative budgetary reductions that do not come at the expense of stakeholder engagement and public trust.

We remain committed to working with WDFW and the broader community to ensure that the voices of professional guides—and the anglers and ecosystems they support—continue to be heard and valued.

Washington State Guides Association