Ringold Springs Access to remain open for fall salmon; fishing from boats allowed

November 10, 2021

Action: Extends fall salmon fishery through Nov. 30 and permits both bank and boat fishing from the powerline crossing one-half mile downstream of the Ringold Springs access area upstream to the old Hanford townsite powerline crossing.

Regulation: Min. size 12". Daily limit six. Up to two adults may be retained. Release all salmon other than Chinook and coho. Night closure.

Effective date: Nov. 16 through Nov. 30, 2021.

Species affected: Salmon.

Location: Open waters are from the Columbia River powerline crossing one-half mile downstream of the Ringold Springs access area upstream to the old Hanford townsite powerline crossing.

Reason for action: Ringold Springs Hatchery began rearing and releasing coho in 2019 with the first release of 250,000 juvenile fish to the Columbia River at Ringold in 2020. Adult coho returns to the hatchery have increased and are sufficient to provide additional fishing opportunity for salmon fishing in this area of the Columbia River.

Additional information: The steelhead fishery in the Hanford Reach remains closed due to poor returns.

Information contact: Paul Hoffarth, District 4 Fish Biologist, (509) 545-2284.

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.