Hundreds of area anglers protest “Stay Home” orders

RICHLAND, Wash-According to Governor Jay Inslee's "Stay Home" orders, boating is an acceptable activity, but fishing is not. And that is not sitting well with anglers across the state.

"When you get outside in the fresh air, it's really easy to maintain your space, and it's just great," says protest organizer Ben Haynes. "And now, fishing, it's our goal to be as far away from each other as possible".

Hundreds of people gathered Saturday at the Columbia Point Park and Boat Launch, some in their vessels, to protest Inslee's orders that allow for recreational boating, but not fishing.

"For me personally and for a lot of folks here, fishing is our pastime, it is our passion, it is our church", Haynes says. "Our greatest love is driving to the lake in the morning and launching the boat and seeing the sun rise, that's where we feel closest to our Maker".

Some notable people were also in attendance, like GOP Gubernatorial candidate Tim Eyman, Franklin County Commissioner Clint Didier and 16th Legislative District Representative Bill Jenkin.