October 31, 2023
Action: Changes white sturgeon retention season structure from seven (7) days per week, to three (3) days per week.
Effective date: Jan. 1 through Feb. 7, 2024.
Species affected: White sturgeon.
Location: Columbia River from Bonneville Dam to The Dalles Dam and all adjacent Washington tributaries.
Rules: Retention allowed on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays only. Minimum size is 38 inches fork length. Maximum size is 54 inches fork length. Daily limit is one (1) white sturgeon. Catch-and-release fishing allowed on days closed to retention.
Reason for action: The three day per week opening will help prolong the season in Bonneville Pool and allow managers to monitor catch rates more closely.
Additional information: Bonneville Pool remains open for catch-and-release fishing for sturgeon on days closed to retention, as do many other stretches of the Columbia River. In addition, the John Day Pool between John Day Dam and McNary Dam opens to sturgeon retention seven days per week starting Jan. 1, 2024, following permanent rules.
Please see the 2023/24 Washington State Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for current season information and be sure to check for any emergency rule changes prior to fishing. Consider downloading the Fish Washington mobile app or signing up for fishery changes at email notification through WDFW Regulation Updates.
Information contact: Region 5 Ridgefield office, 360-696-6211.