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SEAGO and its allies made the right arguments and a strong first impression during public testimony and committee work at the Board of Fisheries (BOF) meeting that is now in deliberations in Sitka. Facing a staggering list of harmful proposals and determined criticism from commercial fishers, SEAGO presented a human face and a positive message for the charter fishing industry. Working closely with other charter industry leaders, in particular Rick Bierman with the Juneau Charterboat Owners Association and Theresa Weiser, President of the Sitka Charterboat Owners Association, SEAGO’s President Tom Ohaus, John Blair, and board members pulled together a highly unified and effective front – a historic achievement for our industry. Our recruiting efforts, along with local charter organizations, helped bring 50 charter fishers to Sitka. Groups and individuals from all over Southeast came together, including members of SCBOA, JCBOA, ACA, Petersburg Charterboat Association, Ketchikan Guided Sportfish Association, and individuals from Craig and other towns. Each night, beginning before the BOF meetings began and following every night thereafter, we held industry organizing meetings. Each day we used a “war-room” to discuss emerging issues, plan counter-testimony, reemphasize our core talking points, and adjust our plan as required. This effort was vital to our success over the week and serves as a template for future meetings. Public testimony began on Wednesday, with 206 people registering to speak (for three minutes apiece). Our strategy from the outset was to take the high road and speak to the issues with facts. This proved effective, especially compared to the accusatory, demeaning, and anecdotal approach taken by our critics. Direct feedback from the BOF Commissioners confirmed our approach was well received and much appreciated. With 42 people speaking for our side, our public testimony was consistent, organized, and we had enough people speaking to more than balance the other groups attacking us. During the committee work phase, the charter industry continued strong and reasoned arguments that spoke both to the conservation of the resource and the needs of our industry. On Saturday evening SEAGO hosted a special reception at the Channel Club for the charter industry and the BOF commissioners to relax together and get better acquainted. Feedback on our efforts during the week was very positive. The proof is in the pudding, of course. The BOF began deliberating on Tuesday, February 24, and plan to wrap up the meeting by Thursday. SEAGO members are hanging in to the bitter end, watching out for the interests of all in our industry.
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