May 24, 2023
Action: Closes salmon retention on the Klickitat River.
Effective date: May 25, 2023, until further notice.
Species affected: Salmon.
Location: from the mouth (Burlington Northern Railroad Bridge) to the boundary markers below Klickitat Salmon Hatchery.
Rule: Klickitat River - From the mouth to boundary markers below Klickitat Salmon Hatchery, effective May 25, 2023, until further notice, Salmon: Closed.
Reason for action: As of May 22, 2023, the Klickitat Salmon Hatchery has not had any adult spring Chinook return to contribute to the 500 fish broodstock goal. The estimated return for 2023 was anticipated to be among the lowest since 2009 and likely impacted by hatchery releases for brood year 2019 that were significantly below the release goal. Closing the river to spring chinook retention will increase the number of hatchery fish available for broodstock and help ensure future hatchery returns. WDFW will continue working with comanagers to monitor the progress of broodstock collection and reopen the fishery if returns indicate that hatchery goals will be met.
Additional information: The Klickitat River remains open for retention of hatchery steelhead as listed in 2022-23 Washington Sportfishing Rules pamphlet.
Information contact: Matt Gardner, District Fish Biologist, 360-906-6746.