Lake Wenatchee opens for sockeye

August 2, 2021

Action: Opens sockeye retention season.

Effective date: One hour before official sunrise on August 4, 2021, until further notice.

Species affected: Sockeye salmon.

Location: Lake Wenatchee (Chelan Co.)

Rule: Daily limit two (2) 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-point 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: Based on current sockeye passage analysis at both Tumwater Dam and mainstem Columbia River Dams, WDFW projects 29,000 total sockeye are destined for Lake Wenatchee. This provides an estimated 6,000 sockeye to be available for harvest above the natural spawning escapement goal of 23,000 fish. This fishery will be monitored closely and may close on short notice depending on angler participation and harvest rates.

Additional information: Anglers are advised to routinely check WDFW's emergency rules website for updates (https://fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/.??

Information contact: 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. 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.