Boundary for using barbed hooks modified on lower Cowlitz River

June 25, 2015

June 25, 2015

Boundary for using barbed hooks
modified on lower Cowlitz River

Action: Anglers may use barbed hooks for hatchery salmon and hatchery trout.

Effective dates: July 1 through July 31, 2015

Species affected: Hatchery salmon, hatchery steelhead, and hatchery sea run cutthroats

Location: From Lexington Drive Bridge (Sparks Road Bridge) upstream to 400 feet or posted markers below the barrier dam.

Reason for action: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted this proposal during the recent 2015-2016 permanent fishing rule process. It was modified from the original proposal that used the mouth of the river as the lower boundary. The modified boundary was inadvertently left out of the new sportfishing pamphlet,

Other information: This regulation focuses on the harvest of surplus Cowlitz River hatchery summer run steelhead. However, steelhead from outside the basin can be found taking advantage of the cooler water temperatures of the lower Cowlitz. Barbless hooks are still required downstream from the Lexington Drive Bridge for easier release of wild fish destined to areas outside the Cowlitz.

Beginning in 2016, per permanent regulations, barbed hooks may be used from the Lexington Drive Bridge upstream to the barrier dam during the months of June and July. However, barbless hooks are still required upstream of the Lexington Drive Bridge August through May. Barbless hooks are also required for sturgeon at all times.

Information contact: (360) 696-6211. For latest information press *1010.

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.