October 31, 2023
Action: Changes white sturgeon retention season structure from seven (7) days per week to three (3) days per week.
Effective date: Jan. 1 through Jan. 29, 2024.
Species affected: White sturgeon.
Location: Columbia River from The Dalles Dam to John Day Dam and all adjacent Washington tributaries.
Rules: Retention allowed on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays only. The minimum size is 43 inches fork length. The maximum size is 54 inches fork length. Daily limit is one (1) white sturgeon. Catch-and-release fishing allowed on days closed to retention.
Reason for action: The three-day-per-week opening will help prolong the season in The Dalles Pool and allow managers to monitor catch rates more closely.
Additional information: The Dalles Pool remains open for catch-and-release fishing for sturgeon on days closed to retention, as do many other stretches of the Columbia River. In addition, the John Day Pool between John Day Dam and McNary Dam opens to sturgeon retention seven (7) days per week starting Jan. 1, 2024, following permanent rules.
Please see the 2023/24 Washington State Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for current season information and be sure to check for any emergency rule changes prior to fishing. Consider downloading the Fish Washington mobile app or signing up for fishery changes at email notification through WDFW Regulation Updates.
Information contact: Region 5 Ridgefield office, 360-696-6211.