Lewis River salmon seasons open Aug. 1; release all Chinook upstream of Johnson Creek

July 30, 2019

Action: All Chinook must be released on Lewis River upstream of Johnson Creek.

Effective date: Aug. 1 until further notice.

Species affected: Salmon.

Location: Lewis River from Johnson Creek to the overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam.

Reason for action: The Lewis River Hatchery is not expected to meet spring Chinook broodstock needs this year. Therefore, Chinook retention will remain closed from Johnson Creek upstream to the overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam to maximize the Chinook available for broodstock. At this time, most spring Chinook in the Lewis River are above Johnson Creek, allowing WDFW to open the area below Johnson Creek for hatchery fall Chinook and hatchery coho harvest opportunity as scheduled Aug. 1.

Additional information: From Johnson Creek to the overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam: Salmon rules: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit 6; up to 4 may be adults. Release all salmon other than hatchery coho.

Anglers are reminded to always check for emergency rule changes prior to fishing. Rule changes can be found online at https://fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/ or by calling the fishing hotline at 360-902-2500.

Information contact: 360-696-6211. For latest information, press *1010.

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.