Columbia River smelt season to open

December 20, 2002

Actions: Columbia River and tributary smelt fishery opens January 1, 2003.

Effective Date: January 1, 2003 through March 31, 2003.
Mainstem Columbia is open 7 days/week and 24 hours per day.
Washington tributaries are open 7 days/week during the hours of 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Species affected: Smelt

Location: Columbia River and tributaries below Bonneville Dam.

Reason for action: The smelt fishery regulations are consistent with Level 3 fisheries in the "Washington and Oregon Eulachon Management Plan" for the Columbia River. Improved ocean conditions are expected to benefit smelt returns, and abundance in 2003 is expected to be strong.

Other information: No license is required. Daily limit is 10 pounds per person (about 1/3 of a 5-gallon bucket). Please remember to respect private property.

Information contact: Region 5 office. (360) 696-6211 and press *1010 for regulations current fishing reports.

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.