Game fish gear rule changes for protection of wild summer steelhead

June 3, 2009

June 3, 2009
Game fish gear rule changes
for protection of wild summer steelhead

Actions:

1. Change the game fish rules on the Skokomish River to: All game fish - catch and release. June 6 through July 31, selective gear rules in effect, except fishing from a motorized vessel allowed.

2. Change the game fish rules on the South Fork Skokomish River to: All game fish - catch and release, selective gear rules.

3. Change the game fish rules on the Dungeness River to: All game fish - catch and release. Selective gear rules.

Effective dates: June 6, 2009 until further notice.

Species affected: Trout and All game fish.

Locations and Fishing Rule Changes:

(1) Skokomish River - from the mouth to Hwy. 101 Bridge: All game fish - catch and release. June 6 through July 31, selective gear rules in effect, except fishing from a motorized vessel allowed.

(2) South Fork Skokomish River - From Rule Creek upstream: All game fish - catch and release, selective gear rules in effect.

(3) Dungeness River - from Gold Creek upstream: All game fish - catch and release. Selective gear rules.

Reasons for action: Wild summer steelhead inhabiting the affected waters are part of the Puget Sound Steelhead Distinct Population Segment, which is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The fishing gear rule changes are intended to protect wild summer steelhead from incidental fishing mortality.


Information Contact: Bill Freymond, Region 6 - Regional Fisheries Manager, 360-753-2600, ext. 225. William.Freymond@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. 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.