Washougal River to close to the retention of chinook salmon

September 18, 2018

Action: Closes the Washougal River to retention of hatchery chinook salmon.

Effective Dates: Sept. 22, 2018, until further notice.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Locations: Washougal River from the mouth to the bridge at Salmon Falls, and Camus Slough.

Reason for action: The Washougal River fall chinook salmon run is tracking far below the pre-season forecast and is currently projected not to meet the hatchery broodstock goal. Closing the river to chinook retention will increase the number of hatchery fish available for broodstock and help ensure fishing opportunities in future years.

Additional information: Camas Slough is currently closed for retention of hatchery steelhead due to closures on the mainstem Columbia River. This fishing rule change closes Camas Slough to retention of hatchery chinook while it is in effect.

The Washougal River remains open for retention of hatchery steelhead and hatchery coho salmon until further notice. All other permanent rules remain in effect. Please refer to the Sport Fishing Pamphlet for complete rule information.

Information Contact: Region 5, (360) 696-6211. For the latest information, press *1010.

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.