Adult salmon daily limit reduced on the Lower Cowlitz River; season shortened to support hatchery production

March 1, 2022

Action: Reduces the adult salmon daily limit from Mar.1 through Apr. 30; closes salmon seasons beginning May 1.

Species affected: Salmon

Locations: Cowlitz River, from the mouth to the posted markers below the Barrier Dam

Effective dates and Rules:

Mar. 1 to Apr. 30, 2022: Salmon min. size 12". Daily limit 6. Up to 1 adult may be retained. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook and hatchery coho.

May 1, 2022, until further notice: Salmon: Closed to fishing for or retaining.

Reason for action: Preseason forecasts indicate a lowered adult salmon daily limit and a shortened salmon season are necessary to provide both spring Chinook angling opportunity and to meet broodstock and hatchery collection goals.

Additional information: Fishery managers will continue to monitor spring Chinook returns to the Cowlitz River to determine if additional open fishing periods and/or increased retention limits can be implemented. The posted fishing boundary markers below the Barrier Dam at the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery will revert to the standard 400-foot boundary downstream of the fish ladder entrance.

All other permanent rules remain in effect; please refer to the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for additional information.

Information contact: Josua Holowatz (360) 906-6771.

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. Visit wdfw.wa.gov/fishing-hotlines to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.

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.