Halibut fishing off Neah Bay, La Push to close May 21, will re-open May 23

May 20, 2015

May 20, 2015

Halibut fishing to close in Marine Areas 3 and 4
(Neah Bay and La Push)

Action: Close the recreational halibut fishery in Marine Areas 3 and 4 (Neah Bay and La Push) on Thursday May 21. The fishery will re-open for one more day on Saturday May 23.

Effective date: May 20, 2015

Species affected: Pacific halibut

Location: Marine Areas 3 and 4

Reason for action: There is sufficient quota to keep the recreational Pacific halibut fishery in Marine Area 3 and 4 open for one more day. After consultation with sport fishery representatives in Neah Bay and La Push, and taking into consideration weather forecast, the Washington North Coast (Marine Catch Areas 3 and 4) recreational Pacific halibut fishery will be closed on Thursday, May 21, and open on Saturday, May 23. Bottomfishing is closed seaward of the 20 fathom line on days not open to the recreational halibut fishery, including Thursday, May 21. The 108,030 pound quota is projected to be reached by the end of the May 23. This rule conforms to federal action taken by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC).

Information contact: Heather Reed, (360) 249-4628 ext. 202

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.