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. 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.