Two Toutle River tributaries open early for hatchery steelhead

May 23, 2012

Action: Open the South Fork Toutle River and Green River to fishing for hatchery summer steelhead early

Effective Dates: May 25 through June 1, 2012

Species affected: Summer steelhead

Location:

South Fork Toutle River from mouth to 4700 Rd.

Green River from mouth to 400' below the water intake at the upper end of the hatchery

Reason for action: Harvestable hatchery adult summer steelhead are returning to the South Fork Toutle and Green rivers. Opening the lower portions of the South Fork Toutle and Green rivers early allows additional recreational opportunity to harvest hatchery summer steelhead returning to Columbia River tributaries in strong numbers.

Other information: Selective gear rules will be in effect through June 1 to minimize handling mortality of smolts and wild adult steelhead that may be present. The entire South Fork Toutle and Green rivers will be open to fishing for hatchery steelhead beginning the first Saturday in June (June 2).

Information contacts: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Region 5 Vancouver 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.