Rules Category: Eastern Washington and Columbia Region Freshwater
Species covered in proposed rule • Other
Other Description Bull trout
Rule to Change: None specific to the stream of concern. Current regulation is statewide rules.
New Rule Proposal: Monument Creek (Okanogan County) (tributary to Lost River, Methow Subbasin). CLOSED WATERS.
Why the change is needed: Monument Creek is an important spawning area for federally threatened bull trout. Bull trout spawning in Monument Creek is comprised of both fluvial and resident fish. Fluvial fish have migrated to the area from the Methow River. Allowing fishing for bull trout on spawning grounds is not warranted and poses a threat to this local population of bull trout. No enforcement or monitoring of this local population has occurred for many years and the affects of angling, including post-release mortality and poaching is occurring. Current rule is not consistent with WDWF and USFWS Bull Trout Management and Recovery Plans.
Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change: Gene Shull, biologist
Describe their support and/or concerns:
Fully supports.
Submitted by: CRANDALL, JOHN — WINTHROP, WA
Date submitted: 06/15/2012
WDFW Rule Proposal Recommendation
Recommended for Public Comment Reference ID: DFW215557
Rule Change Recommendation Short Title Adjust angling regulations on Monument Creek to protect ESA listed bull trout
Rules Category Eastern Washington and Columbia Region Freshwater
Type of Rule Change Proposal Conservation
County or Location Information Okanogan County
Short Description Currently Monument Creek is managed under statewide general stream rules. General rules permit the use of barbed hooks and bait. The rules for Monument Creek should be adjusted to selective gear rules to protect federally threatened bull trout.
Explanation Monument Creek is an important spawning area for federally threatened bull trout. Bull trout spawning in Monument Creek are comprised of both fluvial and resident fish. Fluvial fish have migrated to the area from the Methow River. Current rule allowing barbed hooks and bait is not consistent with WDFW and USFWS bull trout Management and Recovery Plans and should be changed to selective gear rules. Adjusting the regulation to selective gear rules still allows angling in this stream, while increasing protection of bull trout.
