Sport oyster seasons on public tidelands

March 17, 2016

Action: The sport oyster fishing seasons for 2016 will be lengthened or shifted on three public beaches, based on results from population and harvest assessments:

Potlatch DNR Tidelands: Open April 1 through July 15 only.

Potlatch State Park: Open April 1 through July 15 only.

Sequim Bay State Park: Open April 1 through June 30 only.

Effective Dates: April 1, 2016 until further notice.

Species affected: All oysters.

Location: Potlatch DNR Tidelands, Potlatch State Park, and Sequim Bay State Park.

Reason for action: Surveys at Sequim Bay State Park indicate that the oyster population on this beach has increased, and the season can be extended to 3 months. Surveys at both Potlatch DNR and Potlatch State Park indicate that oyster population can support a 3.5 month season; oyster seasons should coincide with clam seasons on those beaches.

Information Contact: Philippa Kohn, WDFW Port Townsend Office, (360) 302-3030 ext. 302

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.