Nooksack River closing to hatchery steelhead retention

December 26, 2019

Action: Closes the mainstem Nooksack and all forks to hatchery steelhead retention.

Species affected: Hatchery steelhead.

Location:

The Nooksack River from the mouth to the confluence of the North and South Forks.

The North Fork Nooksack from the Highway 9 Bridge to Nooksack Falls.

The Middle Fork Nooksack from the mouth to city of Bellingham diversion dam.

The South Fork Nooksack from the mouth to Skookum Creek.

Effective dates: Jan. 1 through Jan. 31, 2020.

Reasons for action: Hatchery steelhead returns to the Nooksack River and Kendall Hatchery are not meeting escapement goals. This closure is necessary to ensure hatchery broodstock goals are met.

Additional Information: The fishery may reopen earlier if broodstock needs are met. Other gamefish fisheries will remain open. On Feb. 1, hatchery steelhead retention on the North Fork only will reopen. Please refer to https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/ for further information on seasons and closures.

Information Contact: Mill Creek Regional Office 425-775-1311.

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.