Spring chinook bank fishery set to open above Bonneville Dam

March 28, 2019

Action: Sets fishing regulations for spring chinook bank fishery upstream of Bonneville Dam.

Effective date: April 1 through May 5, 2019.

Species affected: Spring chinook, steelhead.

Reason for action: Sets the 2019 spring salmon season in the Columbia River consistent with the Compact Action of Feb. 20, 2019. Spring chinook runs are projected to be significantly lower than recent year returns. The fisheries were set within allowable catch levels for upriver spring chinook.

Location: Washington shoreline from Bonneville Dam to the Tower Island power lines (except for those waters closed under permanent regulations.)

Additional information: All lines must be hand cast from the bank. Daily limit is 6 adipose fin-clipped salmonids, including no more than 2 adults of which no more than 1 may be an adult chinook. Release all wild chinook and wild steelhead. Salmon minimum size: 12 inches. Anglers must purchase a Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement.

Information contact: Region 5: (360) 696-6211, Region 3: (509) 575-2474.

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.