September 11, 2024
Action: Restricts salmon retention to maximum of 15 inches.
Species affected: All salmon
Effective date: Sept. 16 - Dec. 31, 2024.
Location: Yale Reservoir.
Rules: Landlocked salmon rules; except salmon maximum size is 15 inches. No sport catch record card is required for salmon. The season, daily limit, minimum size, and gear restriction rules for salmon are the same as trout rules. The angler’s combined catch of landlocked salmon and trout applies toward the trout limit.
Reason for action: As part of upper Lewis River anadromous reintroduction, adult coho will be released into Yale Reservoir for habitat preparation and nutrient enhancement. Upstream transport for reintroduction into areas above Swift Dam is ongoing, with hatchery coho in excess of weekly Lewis basin hatchery broodstock collection targets.
Modifying fisheries will enable continued landlocked salmon fishing while restricting retention of adult coho transported for habitat preparation needs.
Additional information: Under permanent rules, Yale Reservoir is currently open for landlocked salmon (kokanee) retention. All other permanent rules published in the 2024-25 Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet remain in effect.
Information contact: Josua Holowatz, District Fish Biologist, 360-906-6771.