Chinook salmon retention to remain open through Aug. 4 in Marine Area 9

August 2, 2019

Action: Extends the reopening of Marine Area 9 (Admiralty Inlet) to hatchery Chinook retention through Sunday, Aug. 4, with the exception of the section of Marine Area 9 south of a line from Foulweather Bluff to Olele Point, which is closed to all salmon fishing.

Effective date: Sunday, Aug. 4, 2019.

Species affected: Hatchery Chinook salmon.

Location: Marine Area 9 (Admiralty Inlet), excluding the section of Marine Area 9 south of a line from Foulweather Bluff to Olele Point.

Reason for action: Sufficient quota is available for Marine Area 9 to remain open for hatchery Chinook salmon retention through Sunday, Aug. 4, 2019. Initially, WDFW intended to close the area to hatchery Chinook retention on Aug. 3.

This action is being taken to provide angling opportunities while ensuring compliance with conservation objectives.

As part of the fisheries agreements made with co-managers during the salmon season-setting process, the section of Marine Area 9 south of the line from Foulweather Bluff to Olele Point is closed to all salmon fishing when the rest of Marine Area 9 is open for hatchery Chinook retention.

Additional information: Salmon daily limit 2, up to 1 hatchery Chinook may be retained. Chinook minimum size 22 inches. Release wild Chinook, chum, and wild coho.

On Monday, Aug. 5, 2019, fisheries managers will evaluate whether sufficient quota remains available to extend the summer season for hatchery Chinook retention. If sufficient quota remains available, WDFW will announce next week when Marine Area 9 will reopen to hatchery Chinook retention.

For additional regulations, anglers should consult the 2019-20 Washington Sports Fishing Rules pamphlet available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/.

Anglers can check WDFW’s website at https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/reports for the latest information on marine areas that are managed to a quota or guideline.

Information contact: David Stormer, Puget Sound recreational salmon manager, 360-902-0058; or Mark Baltzell, Puget Sound salmon manager, 360-902-2807

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.