Chinook fishery opens on Okanogan and Similkameen Rivers

September 9, 2003

Action: The Okanogan and Similkameen rivers open to the harvest of chinook salmon. Daily limit is six salmon, with no more than two adults. Salmon other than chinook must be released unharmed. Night closure and non-buoyant lure restriction are in effect for all species .

Effective date: Immediately through September 30, 2003

Location: The Okanogan River upstream of the Highway 97 bridge at Brewster to 1/4 mile below the railroad trestle near Zosel Dam; and the Similkameen River from the confluence with the Okanogan River upstream to the city bridge at Oroville.

Reason for action: Recent summer chinook run past Wells Dam has exceeded 42,000 fish. Natural production escapement objectives are 3,500 fish. This leaves chinook escapement approximately 11 times greater than natural production needs for the tributaries upstream of Wells Dam.

Other Information: The section of the Okanogan River open to salmon remains closed to trout (including steelhead) and open to other game fish. The night closure and non-buoyant lure restriction applies to all species during the open salmon season. The section of the Similkameen River open to salmon remains closed to the taking of all game fish.

Information contact: Kirk Truscott (509) 664-1227 or Joe Foster (509) 754-4624

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.