Sockeye salmon retention begins for the Columbia River above Rocky Reach Dam

June 27, 2008

Action: Anglers will be able to retain adult sockeye salmon during the upper Columbia River summer chinook fishery in the Columbia River above Rocky Reach Dam, including a portion of the Okanogan River.

Effective dates and locations:

(1) July 1, 2008 - Oct. 15, 2008 Columbia River from Rocky Reach Dam to Wells Dam
(2) July 16, 2008 - Aug. 31, 2008 Columbia River from Wells Dam to Hwy 173 Bridge in Brewster
(3) July 1, 2008 - Oct. 15, 2008 Columbia River from Hwy 173 Bridge in Brewster to Hwy 17 Bridge in Bridgeport
(4) July 1, 2008 - Oct. 15, 2008 Okanogan River from mouth to Hwy 97 Bridge immediately upstream of mouth

Species affected: Sockeye.

Reason for action: Sockeye salmon returns above Rocky Reach Dam are predicted to be in excess of needs for wild fish escapement to the spawning grounds. The population is not listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Other information: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit is six salmon, no more than two adults. All coho and steelhead must be released. Statewide freshwater gear rules apply. Night closure and non-buoyant lure restriction is in effect for the Okanogan River.

Information contact: Bob Jateff, District Six Fish Biologist, Twisp (509) 997-0316, Art Viola, District Five Fish Biologist, Wenatchee, (509) 665-3337, Kirk Truscott, Region Two Fish Program Manager, (509) 664-1227

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.