February 10, 2003
Actions: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has expanded the maximum daily possession limit of smelt caught in the Columbia River and tributaries to 20 pounds.
Effective Date: February 12 through March 31, 2003. Fishing hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, seven days per week.
Species affected: Columbia River smelt (eulachon)
Location: Columbia River and tributaries downstream from Bonneville Dam
Reason for action: Significant numbers and distribution of smelt have been observed in the mainstem and several tributaries of the Columbia River. Expansion of fisheries is now warranted under the Level 3 provisions of the Washington and Oregon Eulachon Management Plan.
Other information: A Washington State fishing license is not required to participate in this fishery. Only dip nets are allowed. Only the daily bag limit has changed; fishing hours, number of fishing days per week and gear restrictions remain unchanged.
Information contact: WDFW, Region 5 Office (360) 696-6211
Effective Date: February 12 through March 31, 2003. Fishing hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, seven days per week.
Species affected: Columbia River smelt (eulachon)
Location: Columbia River and tributaries downstream from Bonneville Dam
Reason for action: Significant numbers and distribution of smelt have been observed in the mainstem and several tributaries of the Columbia River. Expansion of fisheries is now warranted under the Level 3 provisions of the Washington and Oregon Eulachon Management Plan.
Other information: A Washington State fishing license is not required to participate in this fishery. Only dip nets are allowed. Only the daily bag limit has changed; fishing hours, number of fishing days per week and gear restrictions remain unchanged.
Information contact: WDFW, Region 5 Office (360) 696-6211