Hood Canal to reopen to fishing for marine fish

November 27, 2002

Actions: Hood Canal will reopen to recreational and commercial fishing for marine fish, including smelt and bottomfish.

Effective date: 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, November 30, 2002.

Location: Hood Canal (Marine Area 12).

Reason for action: Marine fish populations in Hood Canal have resumed a more normal distribution and the need for additional protection from harvest has ended.

Other information: On Oct. 21, WDFW issued an emergency rule closing fishing for fin fish (except salmon) in Hood Canal because low levels of dissolved oxygen and large numbers of fish had moved to shallow water, where oxygen levels were higher. Surveys conducted by department divers this week indicated that the fish had redistributed to more normal depths.

Information contact: Morris Barker (360) 902-2826.

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.