I think after going through this whole thread I've really changed my mind about this. After reading my very first post over a year ago, I found myself asking 'what was I thinking?' I don't know, maybe it's just something that happens with old age :rolleyes:

Mike G, I know after meeting and fishing with you, that you are the most unselfish guy there is when it comes to fishing. I respect yours and others views.

I am convinced that most people's feelings on opening day stem mostly from personal opinion, and not really based on what might be better for the fishery. With some people I think it IS a little selfishness, maybe just on a subconcious level. Of course, no one is going to freely admit that. Sure, we can make an argument that having no opening day will be better for the fishery, and throw that up as the bottom line, and say that's the justification. As far as CT is concerned, I'm not convinced it would be notably better. It would certainly be better for ME, because I fish all year round, but does that mean it's better for CT? Our trout fishing is, for the most part, artificial. It's not like going to the catskills and having premier rivers all around you with wild rainbows & browns. Citing data from other states has it's limitations.

In general, just saying that this is what some other state does, doesn't really tell me what's best for CT. MA does not have an opening day. RI does have an opening day. According to Keith G, MA has some good trout fishing and stocks some good fish. Well, I've heard the same thing said about RI. So who do we copy? Now I'm a little confused, is the quality of the fishing or the fish really dependent on opening day? I don't know the answer to that. I think it's a very relevant question though. Any thoughts?