Hood Canal remains closed to most fishing

July 13, 2004

Action: Close recreational and commercial fishing for bottomfish, smelt, herring, squid, octopus and other species in Hood Canal

Effective date: 12:01 am on Tuesday February 17, 2004

Species affected: All species of bottomfish, herring, smelt, anchovy, octopus, squid and sea cucumbers. Fishing for salmon, trout, clams and oysters will not be affected by the closure.

Location: Catch Record Card Area 12 Hood Canal south of the Hood Canal Bridge

Reason for action: The levels of dissolved oxygen in the Canal are very low and are at levels stressful to aquatic life. The low dissolved oxygen has persisted in the Canal for over 8 months. Current wintertime levels are the lowest recorded in the Canal. Closure to fishing is needed to conserve the fish and shellfish species threatened by the low levels and to prevent extra stress on fish and shellfish in the Canal. The closures will remain in effect until environmental conditions in the Canal return to more acceptable levels.

Information contact: Greg Bargmann (360) 902-2825

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.