Rule to Change: Page 35 of this years pamphlet: In 2010 we adopted a new management strategy that offers additional protection to stocks in streams draining into Puget Sound or the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The basic rule in these waters is that all rivers, streams, and beaver ponds are closed to fishing unless they are listed in the following tables in the Puget Sound and Strait Rivers section of the pamphlet (see pages 37-52). These tables detail ALL of the fishing opportunity in these drainages. Areas open to fisheries are presented by river system unless the waters drain directly to salt water. All other waters in these drainages are closed to fishing. We have provided a map (below) of these watersheds to get you started on locating an area where you would like to fish. There is also an alphabetical list of open areas (see following page and special rules). Remaining westside rivers and all eastside rivers are listed in the conventional format and still fall under the statewide seasons, unless otherwise noted.
By definition this stream is currently closed
New Rule Proposal: Cascade Creek, Orcas Island from mouth to Cascade Lake.
First sat in June to October 30. Selective gear rules
5 Brook Trout Only daily limit
Why the change is needed: Brook trout are extremely abundant in Cascade Creek particularly in the non- anadromous zone. Coastal cutthroat are also present in limited numbers and appear to be getting out competed by non-native Brook trout. No steelhead are present in the very short anadromous reach of this stream thus there are no conservation concerns related to catch and release mortality on this species.
Names of individuals or groups with whom you have discussed this change: Steve Boessow, WDFW . Steve did the sampling work on this stream and brought the opportunity and conservation/recreational issue to my attention.
Describe their support and/or concerns:
Support, due to large numbers of non-native brook trout present, the native coastal cutthroat population appeared severely depressed given the habitat available.
Submitted by: BARKDULL, BRETT C — ,
Date submitted: 06/05/2012
WDFW Rule Proposal Recommendation
Recommended for Public Comment Reference ID: DFW785586
Rule Change Recommendation Short Title Increase daily bag limit on Cascade Creek brook trout
Rules Category Puget Sound Region Freshwater
Type of Rule Change Proposal Recreational
County or Location Information San Juan County
Short Description UPDATED: Provide a season for Cascade Creek (on Orcas Island, from mouth to Cascade Lake) from the first Saturday in June through October 31, with selective gear rules and a 10 fish daily limit.
Explanation Brook trout are abundant in Cascade Creek, particularly in the non- anadromous zone. Coastal cutthroat are also present in limited numbers and appear to be getting out competed by non-native brook trout. No steelhead are present in the very short anadromous reach of this stream so there are no conservation concerns related to steelhead catch and release mortality.
