Weighted Flies Prohibited on the North Fork Stillaguamish River

August 1, 2003

Action: Unlawful to fish with weight, including bead eyes, attached to the leader, line or fly.

Effective date: August 2, 2003 through September 30, 2003.

Species affected: All game fish.

Location: North Fork Stillaguamish River from its mouth to Swede Heaven Bridge.

Reason for action: Harassment by anglers using weighted flies is placing undue stress on this depressed wild population of Chinook.

Other information: This change is being put into effect to protect the spawning Chinook population while still providing recreational fishing opportunities on sea-run cutthroat and steelhead. With the low water conditions this year, Chinook have become concentrated in the few pools that remain in the river. Water temperatures in the river during summer low flow water conditions may exceed 70 degrees fahrenheit, which causes thermal stress to the fish.


Information contact: Chad Jackson, District Fish Biologist, (425) 775-1311 ext. 113

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.