Upper Columbia River salmon fishery update

July 17, 2024

Action: Closes Chinook salmon retention in Rock Island Pool.

Effective date: July 20 through Oct. 15, 2024.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Location: From Rock Island Dam to the boundary markers 400 feet downstream of the Rocky Reach fish ladders. 

Salmon rules: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit four sockeye. Release all salmon other than sockeye.

Reason for action: The current and projected hatchery and natural-origin summer Chinook return to the Wenatchee River are below what is needed to meet minimum spawning escapement and broodstock objectives for the Wenatchee River.   

Additional information: For more additional information regarding this upper Columbia River rule change, please visit WDFW’s Salmon Fishing Current blog. 

All other rules listed in the 2024-2025 Sport Fishing Rules for the Columbia River upstream of Priest rapids Dam River are still in effect. Anglers are advised to check WDFW's emergency rules webpage routinely for updates.

Information contact: Region 2 - Ephrata Office, 509-754-4624 or Wenatchee District Office, 509-662-0452

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.