Release all steelhead on Stillaguamish River and North Fork; selective gear rules apply

December 2, 2015

December 2, 2015

Release all steelhead on Stillaguamish River and North Fork; selective gear rules apply

Action: On the Stillaguamish River and the North Fork of the Stillaguamish River, anglers must release all steelhead; selective gear rules apply.

Effective Date: Dec. 7, 2015 through Jan. 31, 2016

Species affected: Steelhead.

Locations:
Stillaguamish River from Marine Drive upstream to the forks; and the North Fork Stillaguamish from the mouth to Swede Heaven Bridge.

Reason for action: Ensure broodstock needs for early winter steelhead are met at the Whitehorse Hatchery. No early winter hatchery steelhead smolt have been released from the Whitehorse Hatchery since 2013. This years hatchery return of early winter steelhead is forecast to be 22 percent of average for recent years.

Additional Information: A steelhead retention fishery may reopen if hatchery broodstock needs are met. Retention of gamefish other than steelhead is allowed as described in the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.

Information contacts: Mill Creek Regional Office (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. 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.