January 28, 2016
Action: Opens smelt fishing in the Cowlitz River.
Species affected: Eulachon smelt.
Effective dates: Open Sat. Feb. 6, 2016
Open hours: 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. (6-hour period).
Location: Cowlitz River (bank only).
Daily Limit: 10-pound daily limit. Possession limit is equal to one daily limit.
Gear: Dip net.
Reason for action: The regulations are consistent with a reduced Level One fishery as described in the "Washington and Oregon Eulachon Management Plan" for the Columbia River. Returns of eulachon to the Columbia River have improved since 2010, with a moderately large return expected in 2016. The minimal fishing season adopted is designed to be consistent with recovery of eulachon smelt. The fishery serves as an important test fishery to monitor run strength and timing and to collect biological data.
Information contact: Region 5 Office 360-696-6211
Species affected: Eulachon smelt.
Effective dates: Open Sat. Feb. 6, 2016
Open hours: 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. (6-hour period).
Location: Cowlitz River (bank only).
Daily Limit: 10-pound daily limit. Possession limit is equal to one daily limit.
Gear: Dip net.
Reason for action: The regulations are consistent with a reduced Level One fishery as described in the "Washington and Oregon Eulachon Management Plan" for the Columbia River. Returns of eulachon to the Columbia River have improved since 2010, with a moderately large return expected in 2016. The minimal fishing season adopted is designed to be consistent with recovery of eulachon smelt. The fishery serves as an important test fishery to monitor run strength and timing and to collect biological data.
Information contact: Region 5 Office 360-696-6211