What is the reasoning for air spawning? Any fish that has already been spawned by the hatchery, isnt in the greatest shape any more. I cant think of a reason for it to go back into the river other than "nutrients to the river".
As I said, the main reason is public perception. The other reason would be that some of these fish could potentially survive, leave the river and return to spawn again. Many of the fish spawned by the hatchery are in great shape post spawn and there would be no reason why they wouldn't have as much chance as a "naturally" spawning fish to leave the river and recuperate.
Raising hatchery production would certainly ease off angling pressure on the C-V system, but most likely not too significantly? Shore access keeps the demand down I think, however It'd be great for anglers who have access to a boat.
Shore access doesn't seem to hamper all the anglers swarming to the Stave in the fall months for the chum run. I believe that the potential is there to draw anglers to this river with increased opportunity. It may not be yours or my idea of idyllic steelhead fishing but for many anglers it may be what they're looking for. If your average steelheader has a chance to hook several fish a day, closer to home, I think he would take it.