Upper Columbia and Methow rivers to close for steelhead and coho

January 15, 2025

Action: Returns areas to permanent rules, as listed in 2024-2025 Washington Sport Fishing Rules (closes retention of hatchery steelhead and coho).  

Species affected: Hatchery steelhead and coho. 

Effective dates: One hour after official sunset on Jan. 20, 2025. 

Locations: 

  • Mainstem Columbia River: From Beebe Bridge (Highway 97) to the Highway 173 Bridge at Brewster.
  • Methow River: From the mouth to County Road 1535 (Burma Road) Bridge.

Reason for action: The allowable incidental take (i.e., mortality) of wild steelhead will be at or near maximum limits by Jan. 20. In addition, hook-and-line hatchery broodstock collection efforts for wild steelhead will begin in February. This break in pressure increases the likelihood of meeting broodstock collection goal in the timeframe needed.  

Additional information: Fishery managers encourage anglers to sign up for Fishing Rule Change email notifications and to check for emergency rules on the WDFW website prior to fishing. Refer to the 2024-25 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for fishing rules.      

Information contact: North Central Region: 509-754-4624, email: TeamEphrata@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. 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.