North Fork and South Fork Nooksack River winter seasons to close early

December 22, 2023

Action: Sets early closure dates for all fishing.

Species affected: Steelhead and all gamefish.

Locations and effective closure dates:

North Fork Nooksack River from Hwy. 9 Bridge to Maple Creek:

  • Effective Feb. 1 through Feb. 15, 2024: Closed to all fishing.

South Fork Nooksack River from mouth to Skookum Creek:

  • Effective Jan. 1 through Jan. 31, 2024: Closed to all fishing.

Reason for action: In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in angler effort on the Nooksack in areas and during times that wild steelhead are present. Early closures are needed to minimize impacts to the wild steelhead population.

Additional information: Additional rules can be found in the 2023/24 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.

Information contact: Region 4 Mill Creek Office, 425-775-1311.

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.