Smelt seasons set for SW Washington

December 23, 2005

Species affected: Smelt

Effective dates: Jan. 1 through March 31, 2006.


Action (1): Open seven days a week, 24 hours a day.

Location: Columbia River.

Daily Limit: 25-pound daily limit.

Action (2): Open Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: Cowlitz River.

Daily Limit: 10-pound daily limit.

Reason for action: A Level 1 fishery was adopted in accordance with the Joint States Eulachon Management Plan. Abundance and productivity indicators project a weak return of smelt for 2006. Rule is consistent with WDFW Hearing action of December 15, 2005.

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.