Green River Atlantic fishing open

OLYMPIA -- Effective today, it is legal to fish for Atlantic salmon in the Green River, and other western Washington rivers. Recreational fishing for Atlantic salmon is allowed on the Green River in any waters currently open for trout or salmon.

Closed on Sept. 1, is the stretch of the Green River from Auburn 8th St. N.E. bridge to the Highway 18 bridge. Detailed regulations may be found on page 63 in the 1997 "Fishing in Washington" pamphlet.

Atlantic salmon originated from an escape which occurred earlier this year at a private net pen program in south Puget Sound. The department is concerned about the possibility of this non-native species establishing itself in Washington waters.

While encouraging the harvest of Atlantic salmon, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is concerned about the wild chinook salmon returning to the Green River. Recreational fishing for local salmon is not open on the Green River until Oct. 1. Any local salmon caught must be released unharmed.

Atlantic salmon can be distinguished from other species by large black spots on their gill covers, large scales and black spots on the back. There is no size or bag limit for this species.

Anglers are encouraged to share information with WDFW about the location and numbers of Atlantic salmon so the agency can learn more about their effect, if any, on native species and habitat. Please write to: Fish Management Program, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 600 Capital Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091.