Action: Open the lower Chehalis under permanent rules, as listed in pamphlet.
Effective date: August 1, 2019.
Species affected: All species.
Location: Chehalis River, from the mouth (Hwy. 101 Bridge in Aberdeen) to the South Elma Bridge (Wakefield Rd.).
Reason for action: Staggered openings are necessary to protect spring Chinook returning to the Chehalis system. The abundance of spring Chinook is far below the escapement goal of 1,400 fish. As returning fish move farther upstream, it is possible to begin opening lower sections to angling while upstream and tributary closures achieve conservation objectives by protecting staging spring Chinook from fishing pressure.
Additional information:
Closed sections of the upper Chehalis and tributaries will reopen under permanent rules as described in the 2019/2020 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet on the following dates:
- Chehalis River, from South Elma Bridge (Wakefield Rd.) to Black River, including all channels, sloughs, and interconnected waterways: September 16, 2019.
- Chehalis River, from Black River upstream: October 1, 2019.
- Chehalis River, South Fork: October 1, 2019.
- Newaukum River, including South Fork and North Fork: October 16, 2019.
- Skookumchuck River: October 16, 2019.
Anglers are reminded to always check for emergency rule changes prior to fishing. Rule changes can be found on the website at https://fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/ or by calling the fishing hotline at 360-902-2500.
Information contact: Chad Herring, Willapa Bay/Grays Harbor Fishery Policy Lead Region 6, (360) 249-4628 ext 299; Mike Scharpf, District Biologist, (360) 249-1025