Commission votes to update rules for commercial smelt fisheries, fishing guide logbook at February meeting

OLYMPIA – The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission on Friday voted to revise regulations for commercial smelt fisheries on the mainstem Columbia River and commercial guide logbook reporting.

The Commission also agreed on an updated performance agreement for Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Director Kelly Susewind.

The Commission kicked off its virtual meeting by approving an amendment to rules regarding reporting requirements for freshwater fishing guides. These revisions will support enforcement by providing clarity on who needs to report, requiring certain information to be logged at the beginning of the fishing trip and increasing the return frequency of paper logbooks.

The Commission then voted to approve updates to commercial smelt fishing rules to align the regulations with current management strategies and recovery objectives.

The Commission’s Wildlife Committee also met Friday to discuss revisions to WDFW’s statewide Game Management Plan. The committee heard recommendations from staff in response to revisions proposed by the committee, who decided to accept the staff recommendations as they proceed with the planning process.

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission is a panel appointed by the governor that sets policy for WDFW. WDFW works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.