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600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091
May 12, 1998
Contact: Tim Waters, (425) 775-1311, ext. 119
New San Juan Islands recreational salmon fishing regulations in effect
SEATTLE -- San Juan Islands recreational salmon anglers are reminded that
new fishing regulations became effective May 1.
The new regulations for the islands, known as Marine Area 7, are outlined in the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's latest fishing pamphlet. The publication
is available at department offices or major sporting goods stores.
Special closures on various dates apply to Rosario Strait and Bellingham and
Samish bays, so anglers should consult the pamphlet for complete information.
Following is a brief outline of the new regulations:
- May 1 through June 30: Closed to all salmon fishing.
- July 1 through Aug. 15: A daily limit per angler of two salmon except for
chinook (also called "kings"), which must be released.
- Aug. 16 through Sept. 30: A daily limit of two salmon, except for chinook.
Only one chinook may be retained in the northern and western portion of
Marine Area 7, and no chinook caught in the Chinook Restriction Zone
(Rosario Strait and waters due south of Lopez Island) may be retained. The
zone falls in the southeastern section of Marine Area 7. A complete
description and map of the zone is in the fishing pamphlet. Also, consult the
pamphlet for special catch limits in Bellingham Bay that are in effect August
16 through October 31.
- Oct. 1 through Oct. 31: A daily limit of two salmon, except for chinook, which
may not be retained.
- Nov. 1 through Nov. 30: A daily limit of two salmon, except for chinook. Only
one chinook may be retained.
- Dec. 1 through Dec. 31: No salmon fishing allowed
- Jan. 1, 1999 through April 30: Regulations to be announced.
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