Anglers must release wild coho in Marine Area 8-2 (Port Susan and Port Gardner)

September 17, 2024

Action: Closes wild coho retention.

Effective dates:  Sept. 19 through Sept. 24, 2024.  

Species affected: Coho salmon. 

Location: Marine Area 8-2 (Port Susan and Port Gardner), excluding the Tulalip Terminal Area and Tulalip Bay.

Salmon Rules: Salmon daily limit is one (1). No minimum size. Release Chinook, chum, and wild coho. 

Reason for action: The coho catch to date has greatly exceeded the pre-season projected catch for the months of August and September. Due to concerns about wild North Sound coho stock status and considering the high mark rates observed to date, the fishery will remain open for hatchery coho only. The closure to wild coho retention will allow the fishery to continue without putting other fisheries or attainment of conservation objectives at risk.                                                                         

Additional Information: The Tulalip Terminal Area remains open through September 22 as listed in the 2024-2025 Washington Sport Fishing Rules. Anglers can check the emergency rules webpage for updates, or sign up for the Fishing Rule Change alerts email list on the WDFW webpage. 

Information contact: Fish Program, 360-902-2700 

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.