Open Upper Wheeler Reservoir for fly fishing only

May 7, 2013

Action: Change fishing regulations at Upper Wheeler Reservoir from closed waters to fly fishing only.

Effective dates: May 18 through Sept. 14, 2013.

Species affected: Trout and all other game Fish.

Location: Upper Wheeler Reservoir, located approximately 11 miles southwest of
the town of Wenatchee (Chelan County).

Reason for action: Upper Wheeler Reservoir is owned and operated by the Wenatchee Heights Reclamation District (WHRD) and has been closed to public access. WDFW has made arrangements with WHRD and the Wenatchee Valley Fly Fishers (WVFF) to grant public access to recreational anglers under Fly Fishing Only regulations. The agreement includes fish stocking and a land-use agreement by WDFW, and site maintenance by the WVFF. While there are currently 15 other Fly Fishing Only waters throughout the state, there are no such waters currently open in Chelan County.

Other Information: Catch and release for trout species only. Statewide general rules for size and bag limits apply for all other game fish. The use of motors is prohibited. Anglers should consult the current sportfishing rules pamphlet for a definition of Fly Fishing Only regulations.

Information contacts: Travis Maitland, District 7 Fish Biologist, (509) 665-3337, Jeff Korth, Region 2 Fish Program Manager, (509) 754-4624.

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.