I think Chris might have been a little facetious but he is correct in stating start now because it will take years and this is how you start. Bring attention to the cause and gain support.
It was stated that much of the White is privately owned and has limited bank access. Is the White easily floated? Perhaps organize a "float in".
I think there are a few things that have to happen with systems like this -
1. WDFW has the "want" to open the system or trib
2. They have to have a specific plan for that system
3. Number have to be steady and at or above escapement
4. WDFW has to have the funding to monitor each system - there in lies the problem, we don't have a plan and budget in place right now to monitor all the systems that could possibly handle a CnR season
5. WDFW and NOAA have to be comfortable with the plan and minimize their potential for a lawsuit
6. Anglers have to show they would like the system or trib open -
I think having a Puget Sound Endorsement tag of $20.00 would be a very good start. Putting together a limited entry lottery program could be another approach to some of these systems that could handle a limited fishery - Pillchuck, White/Puyallup, Samish, Green and other parts of the Snohomish system (Sky). For all that to happen - the department has to measure these systems yearly to have the data available to present to NOAA for a managed fishery. If we don't measure these fisheries yearly, how can we manage them?
Opening an ESA listed river is very long and frustrating process. There are too many different factions involved with the Co-managers, the State, the Fed, Anglers and the .Orgs - that's really the reason I suggested it could take 10-years, my hope is that if they do open the Skagit, other systems that could allow a fishery will be much easier to open - if that happens you can thank WW, Sg and Curt and a few guys at the state - everyone else seems to look at CnR steelhead fishing as a thorn in their side.
D