Mid-Columbia River (Hanford Reach) summer salmon fishery update

May 27, 2021

Action: Allows harvest of sockeye, adult hatchery summer Chinook and any summer Chinook jack in the Columbia River from the I-182 Bridge at Richland upstream to Priest Rapids Dam.

Species affected: Salmon.

Locations: Interstate-182 Bridge at Pasco/Richland upstream to Priest Rapids Dam.

Effective dates: June 16 through June 30, 2021.

Rules: Salmon: Min. size 12". Daily limit 6. Up to 2 adult salmon may be retained. Release wild adult Chinook.

Reason for action: Summer Chinook and sockeye returns to the upper Columbia River are forecasted to be sufficient to provide recreational opportunity. This action is consistent with co-manager agreements reached in April during the North of Falcon season-setting process.

Additional information: Barbless hooks are not required when fishing for salmon in this area of the Columbia River. Anglers can use two poles when fishing for salmon with the Two-Pole Endorsement. Chinook and sockeye retention rules will continue after June 30 and will be reflected in the 2021-22 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet, which takes effect July 1, 2021.

Hwy. 395 Bridge to I-182 Bridge will be closed to fishing for salmon and steelhead.

Information contact: Region 3, 509-575-2740, or Paul Hoffarth, District 4 Fish Biologist, 509-545-2284.

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.