Utah fisherman make a splash at Capitol rally to support public fishing bill

SALT LAKE CITY — Fishing or trespassing? It depends on whether you have the rod and reel or own the property.

Supporters of a legislative measure that would solidify recreationists' right to fish or play on streams turned out in full force Friday at the state Capitol sporting waders, fishing hooks and an entire array of gear to demonstrate they will not be denied access.

The protest is part of a galvanizing debate in the Legislature this year and last as proponents of private property rights wrangle with outdoor enthusiasts who just want a place to sink their lines. At the center of the controversy is a Utah Supreme Court decision that said trespassers were not actually violating the law because they were "accessing" public waterways.

Conservative lawmakers want to undo that court decision, which prompted Friday's rally.

— Amy Joi O'Donoghue