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. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at 360-902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call toll free 866-880-5431.

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.