Fishing closes Nov. 14 to Dec. 15 on three Cowlitz County rivers

November 13, 2003

Action: Three Longview-area streams to close to all fishing.

Effective date: Nov.14 to Dec. 15, 2003

Species affected: All species

Locations:

Abernathy Creek from mouth (Hwy. 4 Bridge) to Abernathy Falls

Germany Creek from mouth to end of Germany Creek Road (approximately 5 miles)

Mill Creek (Cowlitz Co.)

Reason for action: Low numbers of chum salmon have been found in these streams. Stream flows have been low and the fish are vulnerable to harassment, which has been recently observed. All Columbia River chum are listed as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act and harassment is considered a "take."

Prior to these closures the streams were open to fishing for game fish (including hatchery steelhead) but closed year-round to fishing for salmon. Few hatchery steelhead and hatchery sea-run cutthroat were expected to be caught during this period. This closure will provide total protection to spawning chum salmon.

Other information:

These streams will reopen to fishing for trout (including hatchery steelhead) and other game fish on Dec. 16.

Information contact: Wolf Dammers (360) 696-6211

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.