Queets, Quinault, Grays Harbor rivers and tributaries fishing rules update

December 2, 2024

Queets, Quinault, Grays Harbor rivers and tributaries fishing rules update:

Action:  

  • Implements Selective Gear Rules (Selective Gear Rules prohibit the use of bait including scents or scented materials) with only one single-point barbless hook allowed in all areas open to fishing. (Includes salmon.) 
  • Requires release of wild rainbow trout.

Effective date:  Immediately, through March 31, 2025.

Species affected:  All species.

Rules:

All species:  Selective Gear Rules in effect, except only one single-point barbless hook is allowed. 

Rainbow trout:  Release all wild rainbow trout.

Locations (The rules listed above are implemented for the following waters in areas and during times open for fishing under permanent Washington Sport Fishing Rules)

  • Black River (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Chehalis River and all forks (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Clearwater River (Jefferson Co.).
  • Cloquallum Creek (Grays Harbor/Mason Co.).
  • Copalis River (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Elk Creek (Lewis/Pacific Co.). 
  • Elk River (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Hoquiam River including West and East forks (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Humptulips River (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Joe Creek (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Johns River (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Moclips River (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Newaukum River, including all forks (Lewis Co.).
  • Quinault River, Upper (Grays Harbor/Jefferson Co.)
  • Salmon River (Jefferson Co.)
  • Satsop River including all forks (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Skookumchuck River (Lewis/Thurston Co.).
  • Stevens Creek (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Van Winkle Creek (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Wishkah River (Grays Harbor Co.).
  • Wynoochee River (Grays Harbor Co.).

Additional Information:  For information about fishing regulations within the Olympic National Park, including the Queets River, contact Olympic National Park for regulations (360) 565-3000. 

 Information contact:  Region 6 - Montesano, 360-249-4628

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.