Washington rivers, except the Columbia, to close to eulachon smelt fishing Feb. 28

February 26, 2010

February 26, 2010

Washington rivers, except the Columbia, to close to
eulachon smelt fishing Feb. 28

Action: Prohibit sport fishing for eulachon smelt, except fishing for eulachon smelt allowed in the Columbia River.

Effective dates: 12:01 a.m. Feb. 28, 2010.

Species affected: Eulachon smelt

Location: All river systems except for the Columbia River.

Reason for action: Restrictive sport fisheries for eulachon smelt were adopted for the Columbia River in accordance with the Washington and Oregon Eulachon Management Plan. Eulachon are entering some Washington coastal rivers this year. This regulation provides additional protection to the population segment by prohibiting all sport fishing for eulachon smelt in state waters other than in the Columbia River.

Other Information: The Columbia river will close after March 31, 2010.

Information contact: Region 5 (Vancouver) Office (360) 696-6211.
Region 6 (Montesano) Office (360) 249-4628.



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.