Areas of Sauk River closed to fishing in response to drought conditions

August 27, 2015

August 27, 2015

Areas of Sauk River closed to fishing
in response to drought conditions

Action: Closes current seasons for game fish to reduce drought related injury and/or mortality.

Effective dates: Immediately until further notice.

Species affected: All species.

Location:

1) Sauk River from the Mouth of the Suiattle River to the Forks.

2) The North Fork Sauk from mouth to the North Fork Falls.

3) The South Fork from the mouth to Elliot Creek.

Reasons for action: Sauk spring chinook are extremely vulnerable to disturbance due to extreme low flows and high water temperatures.

Other information: Reaches of the Sauk River were previously under “hoot owl” restrictions, limiting fishing to certain hours of the day. This action supersedes those rules. Anglers are also reminded that the South Fork Sauk above Elliot Creek is now closed by permanent rules. Angling for gamefish will reopen as listed in the Sport Fishing Rules 2015/2016 pamphlet edition, FISHING IN WASHINGTON, in the above described reaches when the concern has passed, or when spring chinook spawning is completed.

Information contact: Brett Barkdull 360-466-4345 x 270 barkdbcb@dfw.wa.gov

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.