Rules Category: Eastern Washington and Columbia Region Freshwater
Species covered in proposed rule • Not species specific
Rule to Change: Methow River (Okanogan County)
from County Rd 1535 (lower Burma Rd)Bridge to Hwy 153 Bridge at McFarland Creek, All Gamefish, First Sat in June - Sept 15
from Hwy 153 Bridge at McFarland Creek to Gold Creek, all Gamefish, First Sat in June - Sept 30
New Rule Proposal: Methow River (Okanogan County)
from County Rd 1535 (lower Burma Rd) Bridge to Gold Creek, All Gamefish, First Sat in June - Sept 1
Why the change is needed: During September, within the lower section of the Methow, steelhead are starting to move upstream into the section of the river open for trout fishing. This rule change is to protect steelhead from incidental catch by closing the lower section earlier than in previous years.
Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change: Jeff Korth (Region two fish program manager)
Describe their support and/or concerns:
Permit 1554 with NOAA Fisheries only allows so many steelhead to be caught and released during the Methow River trout fishery. In past years, this fishery has closed early due to exceeded steelhead take, an earlier closure will help to minimize excessive steelhead take.
Submitted by: JATEFF, ROBERT — TWISP, WA
Date submitted: 06/14/2012
WDFW Rule Proposal Recommendation
Recommended for Public Comment Reference ID: DFW329223
Rule Change Recommendation Short Title Adjust open area for trout fishing on the Methow River to protect steelhead
Rules Category Eastern Washington and Columbia Region Freshwater
Type of Rule Change Proposal Conservation
County or Location Information Okanogan County
Short Description Increase conservation measures by closing trout angling in a section of the lower Methow River.
More details --Close trout angling on the section of river from Gold Creek to Highway 153 bridge at McFarlane Creek. New rule would read "Methow River from County Rd 1535 (lower Burma Rd) Bridge to Gold Creek, All Gamefish, First Sat in June - Sept 15."
Explanation During September, within the lower section of the Methow River, steelhead begin to move upstream into the section of the river open for trout fishing. This rule change protects steelhead from incidental catch by closing a portion of the lower section to trout fishing.
