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Sen. Crapo is Excited about this Year's Salmon Run by Eric Barker Lewiston Tribune, May 15, 2001

RIGGINS -- Idaho Sen. Mike Crapo caught his limit of chinook salmon this weekend while fishing on the Little Salmon River near Rigginss.

Crapo, who recently announced a proposal to help salmon and steelhead recovery, was fishing with family and friends.

Crapo said all Idahoans should have the opportunity to share in the excitement of improved fishing and experience the boost to business brought to Idaho by improved salmon and steelhead runs.

"Salmon are a part of our heritage. It is my goal to make runs and seasons like this one a regular event," said Crapo from the banks of the Little Salmon River in Riggins.

"Spending this kind of time with friends and family is a priceless adventure. This is why I will press to move ahead aggressively where we find consensus to help these fish recover. One good year is not enough -- this should happen every year."

Mitch and Shirley Sanchotena of Idaho Steelhead and Salmon Unlimited spent time fishing with Crapo this weekend.

"We truly appreciate Sen. Crapo's efforts for these fish," said Sanchotena. "There is a lot to be done for the fish that everyone can agree on, and with the senator's leadership, maybe we can start getting some of those things done."

Crapo said he enjoyed a riverside salmon barbecue right at the fishing hole. He also spent time visiting with local businesses and fishermen to hear their views on the salmon and steelhead season.

Jack and Carolyn Darragh run the Riggins Motel where Crapo and family and friends stayed. "This year's run is a real boom for towns like Riggins and Orofino," said Jack Darragh. "After last year's fires and lack of tourism because of the smoke, towns like Riggins would be suffering without this year's fish run. It is just great to see all the people out there catching salmon."