For many years, Flathead Lake has enjoyed the reputation of being a premier fishing Mecca for Montana fishermen, sportsmen from adjoining states and from elsewhere.
The pristine water of this lake has been home to kokanee salmon, whitefish, yellow perch, westslope cutthroat (flats), bull trout and, last but not least, the sporting favorite, lake trout/mackinaw (macks). Some of these species have disappeared entirely. And for several years now, a serious depletion in the quantity, quality and size of the remaining species has become a major concern of the local sportsmen.
Just a few years ago, a 20- or 30-pound mack was the general rule. Now, a 10-pound fish is considered a trophy. Instead of killing the remaining sport fish, perhaps Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials would be well advised to review what has happened to this lake under their supervision. A government agency is supposed to serve the interest of the general public – not the whims of a specific culture. Perhaps it’s time for our voters to rise up and challenge the motives behind these types of proposals.
A misguided and promiscuous gill netting of the remaining macks will certainly not assure the return of the bull trout to these waters. But it will certainly destroy what’s left of sports fishing in the Flathead. This could have a far-reaching impact on the social well-being and economic future of the Flathead Valley. Over the years, a subtle, but financially important sports-fishing industry has developed in the valley. Major sporting goods stores, boat companies, guide services and hotels/motels will be the first to feel the financial impact, with consequential collateral damage passing through the entire community.
In my 30-odd years of fishing on Flathead Lake, (most times at least twice a week and during the mackinaw spawn three or four times a week) I never met a Native American fishing. Why all the sudden interest by the tribes in mackinaw trout? What parameters are used to establish native and non-native species? In fact, in what period of time was the bull trout declared indigenous to the lake and the lake trout declared non-indigenous? Nothing in life remains static for very long, especially when one considers the impact of evolution over eons of time. Material things change with time. Our societies and cultures must adapt to these changes or pay the consequences. Cultures that resist change are soon left far behind.
Living here in the United States is, at best, a complex existence demanding constant change and adjustment by everyone. The willingness of the major portion of our population to make these changes and adjustments (sacrifices) provides the means for some cultures to enjoy their traditions and way of life. However, can you imagine the chaos and pandemonium if suddenly the general public decided to revert back to the way of their forefathers?
If indeed the preservation of the bull trout is simply another cultural issue imposed on the general public during a national financial crises then the consequences are too severe. Is it wise, or good management, to sacrifice the welfare of the many to benefit the few?
Richard King lives in Conrad and is an avid fisherman at Flathead Lake.