Sturgeon anglers limited to using one single-point barbless hook

February 16, 2005

Sturgeon anglers limited to using one
single-point barbless hook


Action: Anglers are required to use only one single-point barbless hook when fishing for sturgeon.

Effective date: February 22, 2005

Species affected: Sturgeon

Location: Columbia River and adjacent tributaries

Reason for action: This rule reduces harm to oversize and sublegal sturgeon that must be released and all sturgeon in catch and release only fisheries. Anglers have been allowed to use up to three single-point barbless hooks when fishing for sturgeon. The one single-point barbless hook rule for sturgeon, adopted by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission during its meeting February 4-5, will be implemented statewide May 1, 2005. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife implemented the one single-point barbless hook requirement for sturgeon on January 1, 2005. This emergency rule change is needed to maintain concurrent regulations with Oregon in adjacent boundary waters until the permanent statewide rule takes effect.

Information contact: Region 5 Office (360) 696-6211

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.