Marine Area 13 temporarily closed to salmon fishing

May 13, 2024

Action: Closes salmon fishing.

Effective date: May 15, 2024, until further notice.

Species affected: Salmon.

Location: Marine Area 13 (South Puget Sound).

Rule: Salmon fishing closed.

Reason for action: Pre-existing Endangered Species Act (ESA) coverage for the effects of Puget Sound salmon fisheries expires on May 15, 2024. Federal ESA consultations on 2024-25 Puget Sound salmon fisheries are ongoing but are unlikely to be completed by May 15. Marine Area 13 salmon fisheries are known to intercept listed Chinook in the May period. Accordingly, Marine Area 13 will temporarily close for salmon fishing starting May 15, 2024. Salmon fisheries in Marine Area 13 will re-open when ESA authorization is received for the proposed 2024-25 Puget Sound salmon fishing package. 

This closure is expected to be short in duration, as federal ESA review of this year’s salmon fisheries is anticipated to be complete within the next several days.

Information contact:  Fish Program, 360-902-2700

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.