Sockeye salmon retention begins for upper Columbia River above Priest Rapids Dam

June 30, 2009

Action: Anglers will be able to retain adult sockeye salmon in the upper Columbia River above Priest Rapids Dam.

Effective dates and locations:

(1) July 1, 2009 - Oct 15, 2009 Columbia River from Priest Rapids Dam to Wells Dam.

(2) July 16, 2009 - Aug 31, 2009 Columbia River from Wells Dam to Hwy 173 Bridge in Brewster.

(3) July 1, 2009 - Oct 15, 2009 Columbia River from Hwy 173 Bridge in Brewster to Hwy 17 Bridge in Bridgeport.

Species affected: Sockeye salmon

Reason for action: Sockeye salmon returns above Priest Rapids 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 information: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit six salmon, only four of which may be adults, up to two of the adult salmon may be chinook. All coho and steelhead must be released. Release any chinook with an anchor (floy) tag attached in the dorsal fin area.

Information contact: Bob Jateff, District 6 Fish Biologist, Twisp, (509) 997-0316; Art Viola, District 5 Fish Biologist, Wenatchee, (509) 665-3337; Jeff Korth, Region 2 Fish Program Manager, Ephrata, (509) 754-4624

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.