Smelt seasons set for SW Washington

December 21, 2004

Action: Washington tributaries- Grays River, Cowlitz River, Kalama River and Lewis River open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Columbia River mainstem open seven days a week, 24 hours a day

Effective dates: January 1 through March 31, 2005.

Species affected: Smelt

Location: Grays River, Cowlitz River, Kalama River, Lewis River and Columbia River.

Daily Limit: 10 pound daily limit per person for tributaries and 25 pound daily limit for the Columbia River

Reason for action: A Level 2 fishery was adopted in accordance with the Joint States Eulachon Management Plan. There is uncertainty on whether the run will be moderate or strong based on abundance and productivity indicators.

Information contact: Region 5 Office (360) 696-6211

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.