May 14, 2025
Action: Closes salmon fishing.
Effective date: May 15, 2025, until further notice.
Species affected: Salmon.
Location: Marine Area 13 (South Puget Sound) encompasses all waters south of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
Rule: Salmon fishing closed.
Reason for action: Pre-existing Endangered Species Act coverage for the effects of Puget Sound salmon fisheries expires on May 15, 2025. Federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) consultations on 2025-2026 Puget Sound salmon fisheries are ongoing but are unlikely to be completed by May 15. Marine Area 13 salmon fisheries are known to intercept listed Chinook in the May period. Accordingly, Marine Area 13 will temporarily close for salmon fishing starting May 15, 2025. Salmon fisheries in Marine Area 13 will re-open when ESA authorization is received for the proposed 2025-2026 Puget Sound salmon fishing package.
This closure is expected to be short in duration, as federal ESA review of this year’s salmon fisheries is anticipated to be complete within the next several days.
Additional information: Fishery managers encourage anglers to sign up for Fishing Rule Change email notifications and to check for emergency rules on the WDFW website prior to fishing. Refer to the 2024-25 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for fishing rules.
Information contact: Fish Program, 360-902-2700.