Why do boaters get more fishing rights?

On behalf of all of the shore fishermen on Lake Pend Oreille, I have to take issue against Idaho Fish and Game and its unfair practices.

Everyone pays the same for a two-pole license. Last year, if you purchased a two-pole license — shore or boat — you could fish four poles. This year, shore people can only fish with two poles while if you’re lucky enough to have a boat — this year you are allowed unlimited poles.

Logically, what does it matter how many poles anyone uses when you pay a bounty on fish?

There is no real justification, only a lot of hogwash. When you are sitting on shore with your two poles and a boat drives right in front of you and sets up to fish using more than four poles, are they really targeting fish like Fish and Game wants?

Fish and Game also says you can’t watch four poles on shore. We did last year. Have you ever seen a guy on a boat slow down the engines, drive the boat, reel in a fish and net it? Right.

Boat people have full access to the lake. Shore people are limited, especially with all of the no-trespassing signs.

Wouldn’t it be nice in this economy for the shore people to make an extra buck and help put food on the table?

Equal rights for everyone or discrimination against the less fortunate?

P.S.: I have more than 20 years fishing Lake Pend Oreille and we were happy fishing one pole when we caught fish.

BUTTERFLY BURKE

Sagle