Toutle, North Fork Toutle, and Green rivers close Chinook retention

October 5, 2023

Action: Closes Chinook retention.

Effective date: Oct. 6 through Nov. 30, 2023.

Species affected: Chinook.

Locations:

  • Toutle River (Cowlitz Co.): From the mouth up to the forks.
  • Toutle River, North Fork (Cowlitz Co.): From the mouth to the posted markers below the Fish Collection Facility.
  • Green River (Cowlitz Co.): From the mouth up to the boundary signs 400 feet below to the hatchery weir while the weir is installed in the river.

Rules: Salmon daily limit is six (6) including no more than three (3) adults. Minimum size is 12 inches. Release all salmon other than hatchery coho.

Reason for action: Broodstock collection at the North Toutle hatchery is lower than anticipated. Restricting Chinook retention in these rivers until river conditions improve and Chinook brood collection improves will help meet broodstock collection goals.

Additional information: Fishery managers will continue to monitor river conditions as well as Chinook returns to the Toutle Hatchery to determine when fisheries may be reopened. The posted fishing boundary markers are located at the standard 400-foot location below the hatchery rack. All other permanent rules published in the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet remain in effect.

Information contact:  Josua Holowatz, District 10 Fish Biologist, 360-906-6771.

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.