Rule to Change: The "selective gear/bait rule" for the Washougal River
New Rule Proposal: This rule was inacted during a time that "Native Steelhead" were returning in the Washougal River in low numbers and the intent was to reduce the hook mortality of them during this return period. Neither of the original intentions of the "rule" are now currently valid and I would like to see this rule abolished. I am requesting that WDFW look at the need for this rule to continue and make the change. It is a very difficult rule to enforce and with new technolgy in fishing equipment; it's a very difficult rule for sportsman follow. I believe it's time for this rule to go away. It served it's original purpose, but is now not needed.
Why the change is needed: See above please...
Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change: Columbia River Chapter of ANWS
Describe their support and/or concerns:
They are in support of the rule change and would write a letter expressing that support if needed or requested.
Submitted by: HYDE, KEITH A — WASHOUGAL, WA
Date submitted: 05/08/2012
WDFW Rule Proposal Recommendation
Not Recommended for further consideration Reference ID: DFW078306
Current rule allows for retention of hatchery summer steelhead with selective gear rules(SGR). If SGR rules are removed this season would have to be eliminated due to potential impacts to outmigrating wild salmon and steelhead smolts and adult wild winter steelhead. An intensive creel survey conducted in the river indicates there is handling of wild winter steelhead that could be at greater hooking mortality risk if bait fishing was permitted.
Online Public Comments(0 comments)
No online public comments submitted for this proposal.
