What’s New for the 2009-10 Season

2009 will bring several changes to be aware of regarding Fishing Regulations. These rule changes are described in the front section of 2009/2010 “Fishing in Washington” regulations pamphlet (available on or before May 1, 2009) and online at wdfw.wa.gov for the actual regulatory language and rules. For a complete text and a listing of the changes made by the WDFW Commission at the February, March and April 2009 meetings, please refer to http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/regs/rule_proposals/2009-10_ces.htm.

Statewide Rule Changes

In the past, statewide rule changes have been included in Fishing Prospects for the benefit of the anglers accessing this document. Unfortunately this will no longer happen due to the timing of the publication and regulation change/approval timelines. Currently all marine water rules are negotiated under the North of Falcon committee process. The outcomes will be announced just prior to the release of the “Fishing in Washington” sport fish regulations pamphlet. Refer to this pamphlet and to the agency website for all changed, new and for those updated throughout the season. The website is http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing .

Please make sure that you return/report your catch record information for fishing and crabbing. The information on these cards is vital to providing accurate fish and crab harvest numbers. Remember that early crab, late crab and fish catch record cards are three separate documents.

Remember, when preparing to enjoy a day on the water fishing, it is each angler’s responsibility to know the rules for the waters they are fishing in. Keep a copy of the current Fishing in Washington Sport Fishing regulations pamphlet with you at all times and be sure to check the WDFW website for any changes that may have occurred after the publication of regulation pamphlet.