May 1, 2002

Actions: New restrictions limit sport fishers landing of yelloweye rockfish for personal use in Washington.

Effective date: May 1, 2002

Species affected: Yelloweye rockfish

Location: Marine Areas 1 through 13

Other information: It is unlawful to land yelloweye rockfish taken for personal use in Canada or Oregon into Catch Areas 1 through 4. Only one yelloweye rockfish may be taken from Canadian waters into Catch Areas 5 through 13. Yelloweye rockfish taken from Catch Areas 5 through 13 may not be landed in Catch Areas 1 through 4.

Reason for action: Coastal yelloweye rockfish stocks are the most significantly depressed stock of rockfish, and the harvest guideline is the lowest of all rockfish stocks. Prohibiting landing of these fish into coastal ports maintains the integrity of the Washington harvest guideline closure intended to allow a continuation of the recreational halibut fishery.

Information contact: Morris Barker, (360) 902-2826.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing regulations are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.

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