The reason for the increase in conflicts is that beginning the 2008 tourney year, the WDFW now only allows two weekends per month of tournaments on each body of water.
Check out the page that has the 2008 bass contests:
http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/fish/contests/2008contests.htmWith very few exceptions, there are only bass contests on each lake during a maximum of two weekends each month. It has been chaos for everyone. This is also why we have seen open tourneys dumped on top of clubs (Chelan in May).
The state is also going to require that the applications get in to them earlier than in previous years (Oct 1). If you don't get them in by the deadline, you have to fight for any leftovers after the conflict resolution meeting.
The TD is going to have to be on top of this come fall.
(
http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/fish/contests/index.htm )
"Fishing Contests
A fishing contest is defined as any event where six or more licensed anglers (age 15 and older) fish competitively for game fish and determine winners, regardless of the prize value. A permit is required by the department and the fee is $24.00 per permit (no more than seven permits will be issued to any one permittee during the calendar year). Applications for fishing contest permits may be submitted at any time of the year, but they must be received by the department no less than 30 days prior to the start date of the proposed contest.
However, applications for fishing contest permits for bass and walleye contests must be received by the department by October 1 of the year preceding the year in which the contests are planned to be held. These applications will be processed simultaneously so all applicants have an equal opportunity to get preferred dates. Bass and walleye fishing contest applications received after October 1 will be processed on a first come first serve basis. Upon completion of a fishing contest, a final report is required to be submitted within 30 days. Please see the link to the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) that governs fishing events for more detailed information. "
Stu