Recreational shrimp fishing closing in Marine Area 7

May 30, 2007

Action: Recreational shrimp fishing will close 11:59 p.m. Thursday, May 31, 2007, in all waters of Marine Area 7, which includes all of the San Juan Islands shrimp fishing grounds.

Effective date: Thursday, 11:59 p.m. May 31, 2007.

Species affected: All shrimp.

Location: Marine Area 7.

Reason for action: The recreational spot shrimp share in this area has been reached.

Other information: On June 4th the northern and central portion of Marine Area 7 (all waters north of the boundaries described below) will reopen for non-spot (coonstripe/pink) shrimp fishing opportunity with a 200-foot maximum fishing depth restriction. The 200-foot maximum fishing depth restriction will be in effect to protect spot shrimp while still allowing the opportunity to fish for non-spot shrimp. See page 136 of the "2007-08 Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for descriptions of spot, coonstripe and pink shrimp.

The southern portion of Marine Area 7 will remain closed. The closure area includes all waters south of a line from Biz Point on Fidalgo Island to Cape Saint Mary on Lopez Island, then south of a line from Davis Point on Lopez Island to Cattle Point on San Juan Island, then south of a line due west from Lime Kiln Point light on San Juan Island to the international boundary.

Contact: Mark O'Toole, LaConner, (360) 466-4345 ext. 241 or Therese Cain, Point Whitney, (360) 796-4601 ext. 210.

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.