Lower Columbia River steelhead/salmon opener delayed

May 13, 2009

Action: The mainstem Columbia River from the I-5 Bridge downstream will not open for hatchery steelhead, Chinook jacks and sockeye salmon on May 16 as planned.

Effective dates: May 16, 2009 until further notice.

Species affected: Steelhead and salmon.

Location: The mainstem Columbia River from the Rocky Point/Tongue Point line upstream to the I-5 Bridge.

Other Information: The steelhead/salmon fishery is expected to remain closed until further notice. Fishing for shad from Bonneville Dam downstream will open May 16 as scheduled.

Reason for action: The steelhead, Chinook jack, and sockeye salmon fishery opener planned for May 16 is delayed until further notice to protect spring Chinook that are listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The upriver spring Chinook return is estimated to be about half of the preseason forecast. Strict guidelines are in place to limit the number of ESA-listed spring Chinook that may be taken incidentally during fisheries. Managers will continue to review stock status of the upriver spring Chinook run weekly and adjust fisheries as needed.

Information contact: (360) 696-6211. For latest information press *1010.

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.