Lake Wenatchee opens for sockeye

July 25, 2022

Action:  Opens sockeye retention.

Effective dates:  One hour before official sunrise July 28 to one hour after official sunset Aug. 31, 2022.  

Species affected:  Sockeye salmon.

Location:  Lake Wenatchee (Chelan Co.)

Rules:  

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

 Reason for action:  Based on current sockeye passage analysis at both Tumwater Dam and mainstem Columbia River Dams, WDFW projects a surplus of harvestable sockeye destined for Lake Wenatchee, well above the natural spawning escapement goal of 23,000 fish.  

Additional information:  This fishery will be monitored closely and may close on short notice depending upon angler participation and harvest rates. Anglers are advised to check WDFW's website routinely for updates at https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/emergency-rules.

If you would like to be notified of rule changes as they are announced, please sign up for the agency rule emails at https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/lists.

Information contact:  Region 2 Office (Ephrata): (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.