Recreational non-spot shrimp fishing season reopening in Whidbey Island area

May 7, 2003

May 7, 2003

Recreational non-spot shrimp fishing season
reopening in Whidbey Island area

Action: Recreational shrimp fishing for non-spot (coonstripe and pink) shrimp will reopen on May 10, 2003, at 5:00 a.m. in Marine Areas 8-1, 8-2 and 9, but will be prohibited in all waters deeper than 150 feet. The southern portion of the Port Townsend Shrimp District will reopen as well, with shrimp fishing prohibited in all waters north of a line from Kala Point to Walan Point. All spot shrimp caught must be returned to the water immediately unharmed.

Effective date: Saturday, May 10, 2003, at 5:00 a.m.

Species affected: All shrimp species, except spot shrimp (spot shrimp fishing in these areas remains closed until next year). All spot shrimp caught must be returned to the water immediately unharmed.

Location: All waters of Marine Areas 8-1, 8-2 and 9.

Reason for action: A portion of the recreational share of non-spot shrimp is still available in the areas covered under this rule. The 150-foot maximum fishing depth restriction (and the area closure in Port Townsend) is in effect to protect spot shrimp.

Other information: See page 127 of the "2003-04 Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for descriptions of spot, coonstripe, and pink shrimp. Shrimpers are reminded that shrimp fishing in Marine Areas 8.1, 8.2 & 9 are open Thursdays through Sundays each week. In the Port Townsend Shrimp District non-spot shrimp fishers will also be able to fish Thursdays through Sundays each week now that the spot shrimp season has closed. Spot shrimp fishing in Hood Canal will open on May 17.

Information contact: Dave Sterritt, Point Whitney (360) 586-1498 ext 228; Rich Childers, Point Whitney (360) 586-1498 ext 400; Mark O'Toole, LaConner District Office, (360) 466-4345 ext. 241.

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.