Anglers limited to 1 chinook per day in marine areas 8-1 and 8-2.

October 25, 2016

Action: The daily limit for hatchery chinook salmon in marine areas 8-1 and 8-2 will be reduced to 1 chinook, with a 2 salmon limit. All coho and wild chinook salmon must be released.

Effective locations and dates:

Marine Area 8-1 (Deception Pass, Hope Island and Skagit Bay): Nov. 1, 2016 through April 30, 2017.

Marine Area 8-2 (Port Susan and Port Gardner): Nov. 1, 2016 through April 30, 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 of chinook encounters - retaining or releasing fish - anglers are allowed in Marine Areas 8-1 and 8-2.

The department is modifying these fisheries to try to stay within the agreed to number of encounters, increasing 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 these marine area fisheries.

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.