Lifts night closures, restrictions on steelhead retention on lower sections of Wind and White Salmon Rivers

November 8, 2018

Action: Restores rules for steelhead and night fishing on the Wind and White Salmon Rivers to those listed in the 2018-19 Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.

Effective date: Immediately.

Locations and species:

Wind River: from the mouth to 400 feet downstream of Shipherd falls fish ladder. Anglers may now retain steelhead as listed in the pamphlet. Night closures are no longer in effect for steelhead fishing.

White Salmon River: from the mouth (BNSF Railroad Bridge) to the county road bridge below the former location of the powerhouse. Anglers may now retain steelhead as listed in the pamphlet. Night closures are no longer in effect for steelhead or salmon fishing.

Reason for action: Steelhead retention and night fishing were closed in August 2018 to limit steelhead impacts after the estimated A-index run-size was significantly reduced from pre-season forecast. Passage of upriver summer steelhead at Bonneville Dam is typically near completion by Nov. 1, therefore the emergency closures are no longer necessary.

Additional information: Anglers are encouraged to review the permanent rules outlined in the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet and always check for Emergency Fishing Rules before hitting the water.

Information contact: Matt Gardner, District Fish Biologist, (360) 906-6746

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.