Changes to Tucannon River fishery regulations

February 28, 2017

Action: Rule changes for steelhead fishery and other gamefish.

Dates: March 1 through April 15, 2017

Species affected: Hatchery steelhead (with missing adipose fin) and all other gamefish.

1. Daily Limit is increased to 3 hatchery steelhead per day.

2. Mandatory hatchery steelhead retention is required.

3. Barbless hooks are required while fishing for steelhead.

4. Release all other species.

5. The area from Tucannon Hatchery Rd Bridge upstream is closed to fishing.

Reason for action:. The fishery is being extended for 46 days and increasing the catch to 3 fish/day to remove more hatchery-origin steelhead.

Other Information: Anglers must cease fishing for steelhead for the day once they have retained 3 hatchery steelhead. Adipose fin-clipped fish must have a healed scar at the location of the missing fin. All steelhead with unclipped adipose fins must be immediately released unharmed. In addition, anglers cannot remove any steelhead from the water unless it is retained as part of the daily bag limit.

Anglers are reminded to refer to the 2016/2017 Fishing in Washington sport fishing rules pamphlet for other regulations, including possession limits, safety closures, etc.

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. 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.