Columbia River Smelt (Eulachon)

This policy provides guidance for the harvest and habitat management of Columbia River smelt (Eulachon).

Conservation Policies:

• The Department shall maintain healthy populations of Columbia River smelt while assuring the integrity of the ecosystem and habitat upon which they depend.
• Fishery management plans will consider the role of smelt in both the marine and the freshwater ecosystems and the need to maintain sufficient populations of smelt for proper ecosystem functioning.
• A precautionary approach to resource management shall be utilized.
• If insufficient information exists, or the condition of the resource is poor, a conservative approach to fisheries will be taken.
• The Department shall consider the best scientific information available and shall strive to improve the information base for Columbia River smelt.

Harvest Policy:

• Commercial and recreational fishing opportunity shall be maintained in the lower Columbia River, to include opportunities in both the mainstem and tributaries for both fleets.