Sometimes, it's fun just to watch

• Published August 19, 2008

Well, the chinook salmon are once again milling around below the 4th Avenue Bridge in downtown Olympia.

I visited the bridge Tuesday morning, and a kid stared at the fish like a heron.

"I wish I could fish here!" he said.

I went back Tuesday afternoon, and a guy -- he looked to be in his 50s -- was leaning on the rail and staring at the fish.

"I wish I could fish here!" he said.

I hear you brothers, but it's illegal to fish in that part of Budd Inlet, and that's not a bad idea. This spot shows civilians -- people who don't fish and think salmon is best found in the supermarket -- the beauty and majesty of these fish -- and why they need all the help we can give them.

Besides, it's fun to watch the fish and dream a little.

Chester Allen