Sockeye salmon retention begins in Lake Osoyoos

July 10, 2014

Action: Anglers will be able to retain adult sockeye salmon in Lake Osoyoos

Effective dates: July 11 through Oct. 15, 2014

Location: Lake Osoyoos south of the 49th parallel (US-Canadian border, which is marked with large fluorescent orange signs)

Species affected: Sockeye salmon

Reason for action: Sockeye salmon returns above Zosel Dam are predicted to be in excess of needs for wild fish escapement to the spawning grounds. The population is not listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Other rules: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit is six sockeye salmon. Release all other salmon. Statewide freshwater gear rules apply. July 11 through Aug. 31, 2014 anglers may fish with two poles with Two-Pole endorsement. Release all sockeye with colored anchor (floy) tag attached.

Information contact: Jeff Korth, Region Two Fish Program Manager, Ephrata, (509) 754-4624 ext 224 and Ryan Fortier, District Six Fish Biologist, Twisp (509) 997-0316.

OTHER ANGLER INFORMATION:
All anglers must possess a valid fishing license and a Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement to participate in this fishery. Revenue from the endorsement supports salmon or steelhead seasons on many rivers in the Columbia River system, including enforcing fishery regulations and monitoring the upper Columbia River steelhead fisheries. The endorsement has generated more than $1 million annually for WDFW to maintain and increase fishing opportunities throughout the Columbia River Basin.

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.