Protecting Habitats for Today and Tomorrow

The Association of Northwest Steelheaders is one of the oldest sport fishing advocacy and conservation programs in the Northwest. Founded in 1960, the Association’s membership is comprised of anglers and sportspeople dedicated to “enhancing and protecting fisheries and their habitats for today and tomorrow.”

The Steelheaders’ advocacy extends from on-the-ground conservation efforts to campaigning for the passage of national legislation. This work includes the enactment of the National Environmental Policy Act in 1970 and winning the River Rights appeal at the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018. On a local level, the Steelheaders continue to promote public access to Oregon’s rivers and waterways, and encourage the modernization and sustainable management of hatcheries and fisheries.

In addition to its commitment to fighting for policy change, Steelheaders makes many educational resources and programs available to students, environmental justice advocates, and sport fishers alike. Through all of its work, Steelheaders seeks to remind the public that the ability to enjoy Oregon’s natural waterways is a privilege, and the responsibility of protecting and preserving these areas falls to those who wish to use them.