Sturgeon retention closes in The Dalles Pool

January 25, 2023

Action: Closes retention of sturgeon.

Effective date: Jan. 26, 2023, until further notice.

Species affected: White sturgeon

Location: From The Dalles Dam to John Day Dam, and all adjacent Washington tributaries.

Reason for action: Catch rates in The Dalles Pool were higher than preseason expectations. The projected catch through Wednesday is 184 fish out of the 190 fish guideline (97%) and therefore, not enough fish remain on the guideline to support the previously scheduled openings through March 4.

Additional information: The Dalles Pool remains open for catch-and-release fishing for sturgeon on days not open to retention, as do many other stretches of the Columbia. Fishing for sturgeon at night is prohibited.

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.