Two Easton Ponds close to all fishing

April 5, 2016

Action: Temporarily close Easton Ponds 1 and 2 to all fishing during coho salmon smolt acclimation and volitional release.

Effective date: April 7 through April 27, 2016.

Species affected: All species

Location: Easton Gravel Pit Ponds 1 & 2 adjacent to the Interstate 90 Easton Exit 71 in Kittitas County

Reason for action: The Yakima/Klickitat Fisheries Project managers (Yakama Nation and WDFW) are using the two main gravel pit ponds at Easton to acclimate and release hatchery-reared coho smolts this spring. WDFW holds a perpetual lease from the owner, the Washington Department. of Transportation, for the purpose of rearing salmon or trout in these ponds. The temporary closure of the hatchery rainbow trout fishery and delay of stocking is necessary during the smolt acclimation period. Both ponds will be stocked with catchable trout after the majority of the coho salmon have migrated just prior to re-opening on April 28.

Information contact: John Easterbrooks, Regional Fish Program Manager, (509)-457-9330.

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.