Non-buoyant lure restrictions in effect for summer chinook fishery on upper Columbia, Okanogan rivers

August 6, 2007

August 6, 2007

Non-buoyant lure restrictions in effect for summer
chinook fishery on upper Columbia, Okanogan rivers

Action: A non-buoyant lure restriction will go into effect for the upper Columbia River summer chinook fishery above Rocky Reach Dam. When an angler uses a non-buoyant lure (one that sinks in fresh water) the lure may only be equipped with one single point hook measuring ¾ of an inch or less from point to shank.

Effective dates: Aug. 7, through Oct. 15, 2007.

Species affected: Summer chinook.

Location 1: Upper Columbia River from Rocky Reach Dam to Turtle Rock.

Location 2: Upper Columbia River from Highway 173 Bridge at Brewster to Highway 17 Bridge at Bridgeport, including the Okanogan River from the mouth to the Highway 97 Bridge immediately upstream of mouth.

Reason for action: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife enforcement is encountering and giving tickets to an excessive number of anglers snagging salmon in the Columbia River. The department is also receiving many complaints from other anglers who witness salmon being snagged and kept. The non-buoyant lure restriction will reduce the incidence of illegal snagging of salmon.

Other information: A full definition of the non-buoyant lure restriction can be found on page 25 of the WDFW 2007/2008 Sport Fishing Rules Pamphlet.

Information contacts: Bob Jateff, District 6 Fish Biologist, (509) 826-7341, Joe Miller, Regional Fish Program Manager, (509) 754-4624, Art Viola, District 7 Fish Biologist, (509) 665-3337.

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.