Changes to steelhead fishing rules on Columbia River's lower Hanford Reach

September 30, 2004

Date: September 30, 2004

:

Action: The requirement listed on Page 71 in the 2004-05 fishing rules pamphlet that hatchery steelhead in Area 1 (lower Hanford Reach) have both an adipose fin clip and a ventral fin clip is rescinded - only the adipose fin clip is required for retention.

Effective date: October 1, 2004 until March 31, 2005

Location: The mainstem Columbia River from Highway 395 Bridge at Pasco to the Old Hanford townsite wooden powerline towers upstream of Ringold Hatchery - statewide freshwater gear rules apply.

Reason for action: The recreational fishery upstream of Rocky Reach Dam will open to the retention of adipose-only clipped steelhead, and therefore the requirement for an adipose clip and right ventral clip is no longer necessary.

Other information: Daily limit is two, adipose fin-clipped (hatchery) steelhead; min. size 20 inches. All steelhead with an intact adipose fin and steelhead containing a disk tag must be immediately released unharmed.

Information contact: John Easterbrooks (509) 457-9330 or Paul Hoffarth (509) 545-2284.

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.