Here's the PDF of the rule changes for the 09-10 cycle. 

http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/regs/rule_proposals/sportfishing_rule_proposals_2009-10....

I saw this proposal and thought that I should let it be known...

#19. Fishing Contest Rules

Proposal: This proposal would change the date for submission of fishing contest permit applications for
the following year from November 1 of each year to July 1 of each year. The proposal would also allow
contests to last 4 consecutive days instead of 3.

Explanation: This proposal allows organizations that are scheduling bass and walleye contests in
Washington State to have enough time after the conflict resolution meeting to make any necessary
schedule adjustments and have their tournaments schedule(s) sent to the printer for publishing and
advertising. After July 1, permits will need to be submitted not less than 30 days prior to the date of the
proposed contest. The longer duration allows greater participation by bass and walleye anglers and angling
organizations.

I believe this means lakes must be chosen 4 months earlier....

It seemed so simple when they used to just wait around until after the first of the year and then flop onto us on our tourney weekends at the last minute. 

Stu

Proposal or not Glenn, the fact is that the ABA, NW Bass, and the TBF have already submitted their dates.  Moreover, it sounded to me as though everything was pretty well settled with S. Jackson and the little guys (individual clubs and organizations)could fight over the remaining weekends.  A lot of it was predicated upon the FLW returning to WA next year, and at what time they would be here.

Smitty