Anglers limited to one hatchery steelhead daily on the Walla Walla River

August 28, 2019

Action: Reduces the steelhead daily limit on steelhead to one hatchery fish. Anglers may not continue to fish for steelhead after the steelhead daily limit has been retained.

Effective date: Sept. 1, 2019, until further notice.

Species affected: Steelhead

Location: Walla Walla River from the mouth to the Washington/Oregon state line.

Reason for action: The 2019 Columbia River forecasted return for upriver steelhead was 118,200. With continued concerns between co-managers for A run steelhead and impacts to wild fish, it is important to reduce limits to protect steelhead within the Walla Walla River.

Additional information: Steelhead with unclipped adipose fins may not be completely removed from the water and must be immediately released unharmed. In addition, barbless hooks are required when fishing for salmon or steelhead. Anglers should be sure to identify their catch and know regulations for other salmonid species that are in the area. Anglers cannot remove any salmon or steelhead from the water if it is not retained as part of the daily bag limit.

Anglers are reminded to refer to the 2019/2020 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for other regulations, including possession limits, safety closures, etc.

Please continue to check emergency rules if you are planning to fish for steelhead within the affected area.

Information contact: Jeremy Trump, District 3 Fish Biologist, (509) 382-1005.

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. Visit wdfw.wa.gov/fishing-hotlines to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.

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.