Phil has also been responsible in warning the industry of major threats to recreational fishing access spreading from California into Canadian waters, beginning in coastal British Columbia. In doing so, the CSIA was able to set up a defense through the implementation of the Keep Canada Fishing initiative to fight bad science and the infiltration of U.S. funding trying to influence the closures of access to fishing in Canada.

The CSIA/CNSF Board of Directors realized the importance of Phil’s effectiveness in promoting and protecting the Canadian recreational fishing industry’s health and voted unanimously to appoint Phil as the organizations’ Director of Government Affairs.

CSIA/CNSF President Kim Rhodes commented, “Phil’s dedication and determination to set things right for the betterment of millions of Canadian anglers will continue during the peak of threats we are now facing in Canada from environmental groups. We are fortunate to have Phil’s knowledge and guidance as we move forward.”