Above Bonneville Dam Columbia River spring Chinook fishery

May 14, 2020

Action: Opens spring Chinook season on the mainstem Columbia River above Bonneville Dam.

Effective date: May 15, 16, 17, and 20 (4 days)

Species affected: Spring Chinook and steelhead.

Location: Tower Island power lines (approximately 6 miles below The Dalles Dam) upstream to Hwy 730 at the Oregon/Washington border, plus the Oregon and Washington banks between Bonneville Dam and the Tower Island power lines.

Reason for action: Extends spring salmon and steelhead season in the Columbia River consistent with the Compact Action on May 13, 2020.

The fisheries were set within allowable catch levels for upriver spring Chinook. Managers will monitor the fisheries and dam counts and adjust as necessary.

Additional information: Salmon and steelhead: Daily limit 6, up to 1 adult hatchery Chinook and 1 steelhead or 2 hatchery steelhead may be retained. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook. Release wild steelhead. Salmon minimum size: 12 inches.

Barbless hooks are required when fishing for salmon and steelhead.

From Bonneville Dam to the Tower Island power lines, fishing from a vessel is prohibited and only hand-cast lines are allowed.

Information contact: Region 5: (360) 696-6211, Region 3: (509) 575-2474.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on definitions and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at 360-902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call toll free 866-880-5431.

Request this information in an alternative format or language at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, 833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.