Salmon fishing opens in the upper Okanogan River and lower Similkameen River

August 1, 2008

Action 1: Open salmon fishing in the Okanogan River from Highway 97 Bridge near the mouth upstream to the Highway 97 Bridge at Oroville Washington, August 2, 2008 through September 15, 2008.

Action 2: Open salmon fishing in the Similkameen River from the mouth upstream to the Highway 7 Bridge at Oroville, Aug. 2, 2008 through Sept.15, 2008

Action 3: Allow game fish, except trout, to be retained in the Okanogan River (upstream of the highway bridge in Malott) Sept. 1, 2008 through Sept. 15, 2008.

Effective dates: Aug. 2, 2008 - Sept. 15, 2008

Limit: Daily limit is six salmon, no more than two adults. Minimum size 12 inches. Sockeye salmon may be retained as part of the two adult daily limit.

Species affected: Chinook and sockeye salmon in the Okanogan and Similkameen Rivers and game fish in the Okanogan River

Reason for action: The upper Columbia River summer Chinook and sockeye returns at Wells Dam are adequate to provide necessary escapement goals, along with a harvest fishery. The stocks are stable and not listed under the ESA.

Other information: Non-buoyant lure restriction and night closure are in effect for all species. All bull trout, steelhead and coho must be released. Handling rules are also in effect for those fish released.

Information contacts: Bob Jateff, District Fish Biologist, Twisp (509) 997-0316,
Kirk Truscott, Region Two Fish Program Manager, Wenatchee (509) 664-1227

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.