Reiter Ponds section of Skykomish River opens June 29

June 24, 2011

Action: Open the Reiter Ponds section of the Skykomish River to recreational fishing.

Effective date: 8 a.m. June 29, 2011.

Species affected: All game fish, including steelhead.

Location: Skykomish River from 1,000 feet downstream of Reiter Ponds outlet to 1,500 feet upstream of Reiter Ponds outlet.

Reason for action: The Reiter Ponds Hatchery is on target to collect enough summer steelhead broodstock to meet production needs.

Other information: A night closure and anti-snagging rule are in effect. Fishing from any floating device is prohibited.

Dolly Varden/Bull Trout - minimum size 20 inches may be retained as part of trout daily limit. All Other Trout - minimum size 14 inches, daily limit two.

Other game fish - statewide minimum size and daily limit. That information can be found on page 27 of the 2011-12 Fishing in Washington Sportfishing Rules Pamphlet.

Public access through the Reiter Ponds Hatchery grounds is allowed daily between 6 a.m. and dusk. However, on opening day fishing does not begin until 8 a.m. to ensure an orderly fishery. On Aug.1, this section of the Skykomish River reverts to rules listed in the sportfishing rules pamphlet.

Information contact: Jennifer Whitney, District 13 Fish Biologist (425) 775-1311.

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.