Recreational eulachon smelt fishery to open in section of the Cowlitz River

February 10, 2020

Action: Eulachon smelt will be open from 8:00 a.m. through 1:00 p.m. (5-hour period). Daily limit is 10lbs only. Anglers may use handheld dipnets only. It is unlawful to harvest smelt from a vessel.

Effective date: February 14, 2020.

Species affected: Eulachon smelt.

Location: Cowlitz River, from Hwy. 432 Bridge to the Al Helenberg Memorial Boat Ramp (located approximately 1,300 feet upstream of the Hwy. 411/A Street Bridge in Castle Rock.

Reason for action: Initial test fisheries indicate the eulachon run size is large enough to support a recreational opening. The recreational fishery also serves as an important test fishery to collect additional biological data.

Additional information: All smelt caught must be retained up to the daily limit.

Hand dip net gear may not exceed 36 inches across the bag frame with a maximum mesh size of 5/8 inch stretch mesh size and must have a rigid handle.

Information contact: Region 5 office; 360-696-6211

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.