Two Toutle River tributaries to open for hatchery steelhead; selective gear rules to be in effect

May 21, 2009

through early June

Action: Lower portions of the South Fork Toutle and Green rivers will open early to fishing for hatchery steelhead.

Species affected: Steelhead.

Effective dates: May 23, 2009.

Location: South Fork Toutle River from the mouth to the 4700 Road Bridge.

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

Daily limits: Daily limit is two hatchery steelhead. Minimum size is 20 inches. Wild steelhead and all other game fish (including trout) must be released.

Other information: Under permanent rules, the entire South Fork Toutle River and the Green River from the mouth to the 2800 Road Bridge will open to fishing for hatchery steelhead beginning the first Saturday in June.

Under permanent rules, all tributaries to the South Fork Toutle and Green rivers remain closed to all fishing.

Selective gear rules will be in effect through June 5 to minimize potential handling of smolts and/or wild winter run steelhead that may be still present.

Reason for action: Hatchery summer run steelhead are released into the South Fork Toutle and Green rivers. These fish are not needed for broodstock. With the mainstem Columbia sport fishery closed for steelhead until further notice but no later than June 16, this could also result in more fish returning to these Toutle River tributaries.



Information contact: (360) 696-6211. For latest information press *1010.

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.