Lewis River opens for hatchery Chinook salmon retention

June 5, 2025

Action: Opens retention of hatchery Chinook salmon.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.    

Effective dates: June 6–July 31, 2025.

Location: Lewis River, from the mouth to Colvin Creek.

Salmon rules: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit six, including no more than one adult. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook.

Reason for action: The spring Chinook salmon returns to the Lewis Hatchery are projected to meet broodstock collection goals for the Lewis Hatchery programs. Modifying fisheries will provide additional fishing opportunities while still meeting program and reintroduction goals.

Additional information: Under permanent rules, the Lewis River is currently open for hatchery steelhead retention from the mouth up to the overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam. 

Fishery managers encourage anglers to sign up for Fishing Rule Change email notifications and to check for emergency rules on the WDFW website prior to fishing. Refer to the 2024-25 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for additional fishing rules.

Information contact:  Josua Holowatz, District Fish Biologist, 360-906-6771. 

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.