Columbia River smelt seasons to open

December 30, 2003

December 30, 2003

Columbia River smelt season to open


Action: Columbia River and tributary smelt season opens January 1, 2004.

Effective date: January 1 through March 31, 2004.
Mainstem Columbia is open 7 days per week and 24 hours per day.
Washington tributaries are open 7 days per week during the hours of 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Species affected: Columbia River smelt (eulachon)

Location: The Columbia River and tributaries below Bonneville Dam.

Reason for action: Abundance and productivity indices support a Level 3 fishery, as described in the "Washington and Oregon Eulachon Management Plan" for the Columbia River.

Other information: No license is required. Daily limit is 20 pounds per person (about 2/3 of a 5-gallon bucket). Dip net gear only. 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. 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.