ARCHIVED NEWS RELEASE
This document is provided for archival purposes only. Archived documents do not reflect current WDFW regulations or policy and may contain factual inaccuracies.
News release
Contact: Region 6 - Montesano, 360-249-4628
Media contact: Mark Yuasa, 360-902-2262
OLYMPIA – Fishing is reopening on most rivers and tributaries for salmon and all game fish beginning Saturday, Oct. 29, on the southern coast and Monday, Oct. 31, on the northern coast, fishery managers with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced today.
“Stock assessment information and increased flows from the recent precipitation suggest salmon in many rivers have been able to migrate upstream to spawning grounds, following the unprecedented low flows we’ve experienced over the last month,” said James Losee, WDFW Region 6 fish program manager.
On the southern coast from the Moclips River south to the Bear River fishing will reopen Saturday, Oct. 29 under permanent rules for salmon and all game fish species.
On the northern coast from the Quinault River north to the Sol Duc River fishing will reopen Monday, Oct. 31 for salmon (Chinook salmon release rule implemented on several rivers) and all game fish species. All Chinook salmon must be released until further notice in the Bogachiel, Calawah, Dickey, Hoh, Quillayute, Sol Duc, and Upper Quinault rivers and tributaries.
The Queets River system (Clearwater and Salmon rivers) is closed until further notice to all fishing due to emerging conservation concerns associated with recent in-river fishery activity.
Anglers can find a list of specific streams reopening by checking the emergency regulations on the WDFW webpage. Look under rules listed in the 2022-23 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for additional information. Anglers can be notified of in-season rule changes as they are announced by signing up for email notifications at wdfw.wa.gov/about/lists. The National Park Service (NPS) manages fisheries within the park and fishing regulations can be found on the NPS webpage.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.