Fishing rule changes lifted on several southwest Washington rivers

December 18, 2019

Action: Returns Cedar Creek and the Cowlitz, Kalama, Lewis, and Washougal rivers to permanent rules.

Effective date: Dec. 19, 2019.

Species affected: All species.

Locations:

Cowlitz River, from the mouth to the posted markers 400 feet below the Barrier Dam.

Kalama River, from the mouth to 1,000 feet below the fishway at the upper salmon hatchery (i.e. Kalama Falls Hatchery).

Lewis River, from the mouth to the overhead power lines below Merwin Dam.

Cedar Creek, from the mouth upstream, including all tributaries.

Washougal River, from the mouth to the bridge at Salmon Falls.

Reason for action: The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife modified coho salmon rules in several southwest Washington tributaries in late November due to limited returns to hatchery facilities and projected broodstock collection shortfalls. Recent rainfall events increased river flows, resulting in additional fish entering tributary hatcheries. Broodstock collection goals are expected to be met, therefore continued modification of these fisheries is no longer needed.

Additional information: Please see the 2019-2020 Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for permanent fishing rules.

Information contact: Region 5 Headquarters, 360-696-6211.

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.