Skagit River coho salmon fishery extended

October 21, 2022

Skagit River coho salmon fishery extended

Actions:

  1. Extends coho salmon fishery from in Skagit River areas from mouth to Cascade River Rd. (Marblemount Bridge) through Nov. 30, 2022
  2. Maintains: Bait prohibited from mouth to Cascade River Rd. (Marblemount Bridge)

Effective date: Immediately through Nov. 30, 2022

Species affected: All species

Locations and rules: Skagit River (Skagit Co.)

  • From the mouth to Cascade River Rd. Bridge (Marblemount Bridge) 
    • All species under 2022/23 pamphlet rules except addition of:
      1. Night closure
      2. Bait prohibited (including scents and flavors)
    • Salmon
      1. Minimum size 12”
      2. Daily limit 2
      3. Release Chinook and chum salmon

Reason for action: There is sufficient remaining state share of harvestable coho salmon to sustain additional sport fishing opportunity. Incidental Chinook salmon encounters remain within conservation guidelines, but Chinook salmon are still active in the system.   

Additional information: The fishery is actively monitored by WDFW. Anglers are asked to cooperate with creel personnel collecting catch information. Monitoring and evaluation of fisheries is an important part of ensuring we are meeting our conservation goals for salmon.

Additional in-season short term and limited area closures to prevent gear conflicts with tribal fisheries are possible. Anglers are asked to respect tribal fishers and reminded to not interfere with tribal fisheries. Conflicts continue to lead to additional time and area closures to reduce conflicts. 

In-season closure, reopening, or other management actions will be announced as soon as possible. Please consider downloading the FishWA app or signing up for fishery change notifications by email at https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/lists.

Information contact:  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. 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.