Closure of the Samish River to fishing

November 24, 2010

Action: Closes the Samish River to all fishing.

Species affected: All species of fish

Location and effective closure dates: The Samish River from the I-5 Bridge to the Hickson Bridge, will closed Dec. 1. From the mouth to the I-5 Bridge will be closed Jan.1, 2011.

Reasons for action: Hatchery steelhead releases in the Samish River were discontinued after spring of 2008. The closure will reduce incidental hooking mortality on wild steelhead, which are expected to return in numbers well below escapement goals. Puget Sound steelhead are listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act in May 2007.

Other information: The river will reopen to fishing on June 4, 2011, as listed in the 2011/2012, FISHING IN WASHINGTON sport fishing rules.

Information Contact: Brett Barkdull, (360) 466-4345 x 270
barkdbcb@dfw.wa.gov

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.