Sport oyster seasons on public tidelands

March 17, 2016

Action: The sport oyster fishing seasons for 2016 will be lengthened or shifted on three public beaches, based on results from population and harvest assessments:

Potlatch DNR Tidelands: Open April 1 through July 15 only.

Potlatch State Park: Open April 1 through July 15 only.

Sequim Bay State Park: Open April 1 through June 30 only.

Effective Dates: April 1, 2016 until further notice.

Species affected: All oysters.

Location: Potlatch DNR Tidelands, Potlatch State Park, and Sequim Bay State Park.

Reason for action: Surveys at Sequim Bay State Park indicate that the oyster population on this beach has increased, and the season can be extended to 3 months. Surveys at both Potlatch DNR and Potlatch State Park indicate that oyster population can support a 3.5 month season; oyster seasons should coincide with clam seasons on those beaches.

Information Contact: Philippa Kohn, WDFW Port Townsend Office, (360) 302-3030 ext. 302

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.