Anglers limited to 1 chinook per day in Marine Area 6

February 8, 2017

Action: The daily limit for hatchery chinook salmon in Marine Area 6 will be reduced to 1 chinook, with an overall 2-salmon limit per person. All coho and wild chinook salmon must be released.

Effective dates: Feb.16, through April 15, 2017.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Reason for action: Before the salmon fishing season started, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and tribal co-managers agreed to a limited number (3,975) of "chinook encounters" - including both retained and released fish - that anglers will be allowed in Marine Area 6.

To stay within the agreed number of encounters, the department is modifying this fishery to increase the likelihood of providing season-long fisheries. WDFW consulted with its Puget Sound sportfishing advisors in making this change.

Other information: WDFW will continue to monitor and evaluate Marine Area 6 fishery.

Information contact: Mark Baltzell, (360) 902-2807 or Ryan Lothrop, (360) 902-2808.

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.