All spring Chinook must be released on the Lewis River

June 5, 2008

Action: Lewis River anglers must release all spring Chinook beginning Saturday June 7.

Species affected: Chinook salmon

Effective dates: Effective June 7 until further notice.

Location: Mainstem Lewis from mouth to mouth of East Fork;
North Fork Lewis from mouth to overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam

Reason for action: After today's collection of 69 female spring chinook from a week's worth of trapping, the hatchery still needs up to 200 more fish to meet its collection goal. Typically Lewis River spring Chinook returns quickly taper off by mid June. It's uncertain at this time whether the hatchery goal will be met.

Other information: Creel sampling surveys have shown light catches and no evidence of large numbers of fish holding in the river. Hatchery returns will continue to be closely monitored.

Information contact: (360) 696-6211. For latest information press *1010.



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.