Salmon season to close on the Lewis River

May 4, 2020

Action: Closes salmon fishing.

Effective date: March 1, 2020 until further notice.

Species affected: Salmon.

Location: Lewis River (Clark/Cowlitz Co.): from the mouth to the overhead power lines below Merwin Dam.

Reason for action: The 2020 Lewis River spring Chinook run forecast is 1,370 fish. Based on this forecast, there is not expected to be enough fish above the hatchery broodstock need to support a fishery. Closing the salmon fishing season in the Lewis River will increase the number of hatchery fish available for broodstock and help ensure future hatchery returns.

Additional information: Harvest of salmon on the Lewis River may be allowed if in-season data, including hatchery returns, show the actual run size is large enough to support harvest. All other permanent rules remain in effect, including allowed harvest of hatchery steelhead in the effective locations described above. Please refer to the Sport Fishing Pamphlet for complete rule information.

Information contact: Region 5 Ridgefield office, (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.