Statewide closure of eulachon smelt

December 15, 2010

Action: Closes sport fishing for eulachon (Columbia River) smelt statewide.

Effective dates: Dec. 15, 2010.

Species affected: Eulachon smelt (Thaleichthys pacificus)

Location: Statewide, all marine and freshwater areas.

Reasons for action: Eulachon smelt are listed under the Endangered Species Act as “Threatened”. There are no harvestable populations within the state and the statewide fishing closure will provide additional protection.

Information Contact: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Fish Program, (360) 902-2700, FISHPGM@dfw.wa.gov.

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.