Lake Wenatchee opens for sockeye

July 29, 2020

Action: Opens sockeye retention season.

Effective date: One hour before official sunrise on August 3 to one hour after official sunset on September 7, 2020.

Species affected: Sockeye salmon.

Location: Lake Wenatchee (Chelan County)

Rule: Daily limit four (4) sockeye. Minimum size 12 inches. Release all Bull Trout, steelhead, and Chinook salmon unharmed and without removing the fish from the water. Selective gear rules are in effect (up to three single barbless hooks per line, no bait or scent allowed, knotless nets required). Two-pole fishing is allowed with a valid two-pole endorsement. Night closure in effect.

Reason for action: The WDFW projects approximately 35,000 sockeye will return to Lake Wenatchee, which is 12,000 over the escapement target (23,000). This fishery may close on short notice depending upon participation and harvest rates. Anglers are advised to check WDFW's website routinely for updates (https://fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/).

Information contact: Call the Ephrata regional office (509-754-4624) or email TeamEphrata@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. 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.