Lower Cowlitz River to close for chinook salmon retention

September 29, 2017

Action: Release all chinook salmon on the Cowlitz River from the Barrier Dam downstream.

Species affected: Chinook salmon

Effective date: Oct. 2, 2017 until further notice.

Location: Cowlitz River from the Barrier Dam downstream.

Reason for action: The return of fall chinook to the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery so far this year has been well below the forecast. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife projects that with the current salmon fishing regulations on the Cowlitz River, not enough fall chinook will reach the hatchery to meet egg take goals. Closing the chinook salmon fishing season in the Cowlitz River will increase the number of hatchery fish available for broodstock and ensure future hatchery returns.

Other information: The salmon daily limit will be 6 hatchery coho of which no more than 2 may be adults. Release all other salmon.

Fishing regulations for chinook in the upper Cowlitz River are not impacted by this rule change.

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. 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.