Lower Hoh River re-opens to fishing, all chinook must be released

December 8, 2020

Actions: Fishing for salmon and trout opens in the lower Hoh River. Chinook must be released.

Effective date: Monday, Nov. 11, 2002, at 12:01 am.

Species affected: Coho and chum salmon, and trout. Chinook release.

Location: Hoh River, from the mouth to DNR Oxbow Campground boat launch.

Reason for action: Rain has brought the Hoh River's flow to normal, allowing fall chinook and coho salmon to migrate upriver to most of their usual spawning grounds. Biologists remain concerned that chinook salmon have been more affected by the previous low flows that delayed their normal distribution to the spawning grounds, so chinook release will be required in the lower river through the end of the salmon season, Nov. 30, 2002. The upper river and south fork remain closed to fishing to provide maximum protection for spawning chinook.

Other information: Sport fishing regulations return to permanent regulations beginning Dec. 1. The Hoh Tribe will also resume fishing in the lower river. Olympic National Park has adopted the same restrictions in areas of the Hoh River and south fork Hoh within park boundaries. Anglers should refer to the Sportfishing rules pamphlet for bag limits and size restrictions, except that all chinook must be released unharmed.

Information contact: Bill Freymond, District Fish Biologist, (360) 249-1225.

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.