Allow anglers on North Fork Lewis River to retain unclipped chinook salmon

September 12, 2011

September 9, 2011

Allow anglers on North Fork Lewis River
to retain unclipped chinook salmon

Action: Open North Fork Lewis River to the retention of unclipped chinook salmon.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Effective dates: Sept. 10 through Sept. 30, 2011.

Location: Clark/Cowlitz Counties, from mouth to Merwin Dam.

Other information: The North Fork Lewis River contains a healthy wild population of fall bright chinook salmon and was previously scheduled to open for retention of unclipped Chinook on Oct. 1. Fishery managers have since determined that there are sufficient numbers of returning fish to allow retention of unclipped chinook Sept. 10. Daily limit of 6 salmon, of which no more than 2 may be adult chinook. Minimum size 12 inches in length, release all salmon other than chinook and hatchery coho.

Reason for action: Returning fall bright chinook to the North Fork Lewis River are expected to exceed spawning production goals, and provide significant harvest opportunity. The escapement goal for the North Fork Lewis Fall bright Chinook is 5700. Over 10,000 are expected back to the river.

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.